Craig Jones

Craig Jones: The Grappling Phenom Redefining Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Background in BJJ

Craig Jones, born on July 17, 1991, in Adelaide, Australia, has rapidly risen to become one of the most influential and recognized figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Starting his journey in grappling relatively late compared to his peers, Jones began training in BJJ at the age of 15. Under the tutelage of various instructors, including Lachlan Giles, Jones honed his skills, focusing primarily on the competitive aspects of the sport. His dedication and passion for BJJ led him to earn his black belt in a remarkably short period, showcasing his exceptional talent and understanding of the art.

Competition Record

Craig Jones’ competition record is nothing short of impressive. He gained international fame at the 2017 ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) World Championships, where he shocked the BJJ communitgily by submitting the renowned Leandro Lo and making it to the semifinals. This performance established him as a formidable competitor on the world stage. Over the years, Jones has collected numerous accolades, including victories at Polaris, EBI (Eddie Bravo Invitational), and GrappleFest. His aggressive and dynamic grappling style, particularly his proficiency with leg locks, has earned him a reputation as one of the most dangerous submission artists in the sport.

Personal Life

Beyond the mats, Craig Jones is known for his charismatic personality and sense of humor, which have endeared him to fans worldwide. He often shares insights into his training routines, travel adventures, and personal life through social media, providing a glimpse into the life of a professional grappler. Jones’ approachable demeanor and candidness have helped demystify the world of elite BJJ, making it more accessible and relatable to a broader audience.

Craig Jones Instructionals on BJJ Fanatics

Jones has also made a significant impact on the competition mats through his instructional videos on BJJ Fanatics. These instructional series cover a wide range of techniques and concepts, from his famous leg lock system to guard passing and escapes. His ability to break down complex techniques into easily understandable segments has made his instructionals immensely popular among practitioners of all levels. By sharing his knowledge, Jones has helped countless grapplers improve their skills and deepen their understanding of BJJ.

The Split with the DDS

One of the most notable events in Craig Jones’ career was the dissolution of the Danaher Death Squad (DDS), the elite BJJ team led by renowned coach John Danaher. The split, which occurred in 2021, shocked the BJJ community as DDS had been one of the most successful and influential teams in the sport. Following the breakup, Jones, along with several other former DDS members, formed a new team called the B-Team. This move allowed Jones and his teammates to create a training environment that reflected their own philosophies and goals.

Creation of New Competition Clashing with ADCC

In a bold and innovative move, Craig Jones has recently announced the creation of a new grappling competition designed to rival the prestigious ADCC. This new event aims to provide an alternative platform for grapplers to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. While details are still emerging, the competition promises to bring fresh energy and innovation to the BJJ world. By challenging the status quo, Jones continues to push the boundaries of the sport, cementing his legacy as a pioneer and visionary in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Conclusion

Craig Jones’ journey from a young grappler in Australia to a global BJJ icon is a testament to his dedication, skill, and passion for the sport. Whether through his remarkable competition record, engaging instructional content, or groundbreaking initiatives, Jones continues to influence and inspire the BJJ community worldwide. As he forges ahead with new ventures and challenges, the grappling world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the career of this exceptional athlete.