Team Australasia Finalizes Killer Squad for Craig Jones Invitational 2 – Melbourne Trials Reveal New Grappling Stars

The submission grappling world is buzzing as Team Australasia has locked in their final roster for the highly anticipated Craig Jones Invitational 2 (CJI 2). After an intense series of qualification trials in Melbourne, Australia, the team has added two standout performers and a wild card selection that could shake up the entire tournament.

And let me tell you, this squad looks absolutely stacked.

For those who don’t know, Craig Jones is arguably the most prominent figure in Australian jiu-jitsu history, and his invitational has quickly become one of the must-watch events in the submission grappling calendar.

Melbourne Trials Uncover Hidden Gems in Australasian Grappling Scene

The Melbourne qualification trials turned into a war of attrition as dozens of hungry grapplers battled for the coveted team spots. The level of competition was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the explosive growth of submission grappling talent across Australia and New Zealand.

What impressed me most was the technical depth on display. These weren’t just athletic specimens – these were tactically sound grapplers with diverse submission arsenals that could trouble even the international elite.

“The talent pool in Australia continues to deepen,” said one observer at the trials. “We’re no longer just producing one or two world-class athletes – there’s legitimate depth here now.”

The New Additions That Could Change Everything

From what I’ve gathered, the two trial winners demonstrated exceptional skill sets that should translate well to the CJI 2 format. While names haven’t been officially confirmed, rumors suggest one specializes in leg locks (fitting for Team Craig Jones) while the other brings a crushing top pressure game reminiscent of ADCC champions.

As for the wild card selection? That’s where things get really interesting.

Wild Card Pick Could Be Tournament X-Factor

Inside sources suggest the wild card selection is someone with limited competitive experience but extraordinary natural talent – possibly with a background in another combat sport. This kind of cross-disciplinary athlete has historically created problems for jiu-jitsu specialists, bringing unorthodox approaches that can disrupt traditional grappling exchanges.

Remember when Craig Jones himself burst onto the international scene? Few knew his name before he started heel-hooking world champions. This wild card pick could potentially follow a similar trajectory.

What This Means for CJI 2’s Tournament Landscape

Team Australasia has traditionally been viewed as dangerous but perhaps a step behind the powerhouse American and Brazilian squads. With these final additions, that perception might be shifting.

The format of CJI 2 rewards team cohesion and strategic matchup selection – areas where the home-field advantage could prove significant for Team Australasia. Having Craig Jones himself as a tactical advisor certainly doesn’t hurt either.

I’ve watched enough submission grappling to know that momentum matters enormously in team competitions. If the Australasian squad can secure early victories, their confidence could snowball into something truly special for the home crowd.

Why MMA Fans Should Be Paying Attention

For the casual MMA fan, you might be wondering why this matters. Here’s why: today’s elite grapplers are tomorrow’s MMA submission specialists. The technical innovations happening in events like CJI 2 inevitably filter into the MMA meta-game within just a few years.

Plus, the finishing rate in these submission-only formats is absurdly high compared to typical MMA events. If you love seeing technical submissions rather than decision fights, this is your jam.

When and How to Watch CJI 2

Craig Jones Invitational 2 will be available via live stream, with details to be announced on Craig Jones’ social media channels. Based on the previous event, expect high production values and expert commentary that makes the technical aspects accessible even to casual fans.

I’ll be glued to my screen for this one. Between the international talent, the team format, and these new Australasian additions, CJI 2 has all the ingredients to deliver some truly memorable grappling moments.

What do you think about Team Australasia’s chances? Do you believe the home field advantage will play a factor? Drop your predictions in the comments below!

Source: Craig Jones Invitational official announcements