In a candid interview on Sean O’Malley’s popular podcast, grappling superstar Craig Jones opened up about the upcoming Craig Jones Invitational and the surprising moves by the ADCC organization.
During the conversation, Jones revealed his surprise over ADCC’s decision to create an additional medal for the upcoming championship, which many believe is a thinly veiled attempt to boost Gordon Ryan’s medal count and cement his status as superior to legendary competitor Andre Galvao.
Jones, who is set to host the first-ever million-dollar grappling tournament, discussed the logistical challenges of organizing such a high-stakes event. He also touched on the ongoing rivalry between himself and the formidable Gabi Garcia, whom he has agreed to face with a million-dollar wager on the line.
When the discussion shifted to ADCC, Jones did not hold back. He expressed his frustration with the organization’s apparent favoritism towards certain athletes, particularly in the case of the newly introduced medal. “It’s pretty clear that this is just a way for Gordon to add another ADCC medal to his collection,” Jones said. ” He can use that to say oh I’m better than Andre Galvao I’ve got more ADCC medals which to me kind of just seems like whatever the f*** he says goes you know”
The grappling standout went on to discuss the implications of ADCC’s decision, including that it could erode the credibility of the prestigious tournament.
It’s especially funny considering Gordon Ryan made fun of Galvao for his claim of having had 6 ADCC medals. Galvao had been in a string of superfights in which he would face the winner of absolute from the event before. The streak was ended by Gordon Ryan in 2019.
While Ryan teased about participating in the division it’s clear his health is shaky at best with a test appearance at WNO causing serious nausea.
