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BREAKING: Craig Jones Announces Retirement – BJJ Legend to Have Final Match at His Own Invitational
The jiu-jitsu world is in shock today as one of its most innovative and entertaining stars has decided to call it quits. Craig Jones, the Australian submission specialist who has dazzled fans with his leg lock mastery and laid-back attitude, has officially announced his retirement from competitive grappling.
The 33-year-old will have one final match at his own promotion, Craig Jones Invitational 2 (CJI 2), before hanging up his gi for good.
From Competitor to Promoter: The Evolution of Craig Jones
I’ve been following Craig’s career since he burst onto the international scene by submitting ADCC champion Leandro Lo back in 2017. What’s always struck me about Jones is how he’s managed to blend world-class technical skill with an approachable, sometimes hilarious persona that made him a fan favorite.
Jones has been steadily transitioning from competitor to promoter over the past few years. His first Craig Jones Invitational event showed his vision for the sport – high-level matches with entertaining production values and none of the stalling tactics that sometimes plague competitive jiu-jitsu.
“I want to focus on building something that showcases what makes this sport great,” Jones said in his retirement announcement. “I’ve had my time on the mats competing. Now I want to create opportunities for the next generation.”
The Legacy of the Leg Lock Master
Jones leaves behind an impressive competitive legacy. Some of his career highlights include:
- ADCC silver medalist
- Multiple Polaris championship wins
- Submission Underground champion
- Victories over legends like Leandro Lo and Murilo Santana
Beyond the medals and wins, Jones helped popularize the modern leg lock game alongside his former teammate Gordon Ryan and coach John Danaher. His instructionals on heel hooks and Z-guard revolutionized how many practitioners approach the lower body submission game.
The Final Match: Who Will Face Craig Jones?
Details about Jones’ final opponent remain under wraps, but speculation is running wild. Will it be a rematch with a former rival? A superfight against another retiring legend? Or perhaps a passing-of-the-torch moment against an up-and-coming talent?
Whatever happens, you can bet the Australian will be looking to end his competitive career with one of his signature heel hooks.
| Craig Jones Career Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Notable Wins | Major Achievements |
| Leandro Lo, Murilo Santana, Rodolfo Vieira | ADCC Silver Medal, Polaris Champion |
| Signature Techniques | Business Ventures |
| Z-Guard, Heel Hooks, Triangle Chokes | B-Team Gym, Craig Jones Invitational, Instructionals |
What’s Next for the B-Team?
Jones’ retirement raises questions about the future of B-Team, the training group he co-founded with Nicky Ryan, Nicky Rod, and Ethan Crelinsten after splitting from the Danaher Death Squad.
While Jones will likely remain involved in a coaching capacity, his absence from competition creates a leadership void in one of jiu-jitsu’s most exciting teams. Will Nicky Ryan or another member step up to become the new face of the squad?
The Growing Trend of BJJ Promoters
Jones joins other high-level grapplers like Chael Sonnen (Submission Underground) and Gordon Ryan (who’s involved with various promotions) in transitioning to the business side of the sport.
This shift represents a maturation of the BJJ scene, as athletes recognize the importance of creating sustainable platforms for the sport to grow beyond their own competitive careers.
The Craig Jones Invitational has already distinguished itself with its fan-friendly format and emphasis on submission-only matches with no advantages or points to slow down the action.
How to Watch Craig Jones’ Final Match
While details are still emerging about the exact date and streaming platform for CJI 2, Jones’ previous event was available via pay-per-view on various streaming platforms.
I’d recommend following Craig’s social media accounts for the official announcement, which should come in the next few weeks. This is definitely going to be a must-watch event for any serious BJJ or MMA fan.
The End of an Era
Craig Jones may not have the mainstream recognition of some MMA stars, but within the grappling community, his retirement marks the end of an era. His technical innovations, laid-back charisma, and willingness to take on all comers made him one of the most influential and popular figures in modern jiu-jitsu.
As someone who’s watched countless hours of his matches and instructionals, I can say the sport won’t be quite the same without the Australian submission hunter actively competing. But knowing Craig, his impact as a promoter and coach may ultimately eclipse even his impressive competitive accomplishments.
Will you be watching Craig Jones’ final match? Let us know in the comments below!
Insert image of Craig Jones in competition stance here
Source: Craig Jones Invitational Official Announcement
