Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu superstar Craig Jones has recently voiced strong opinions on the importance of contract negotiations in professional grappling, particularly in light of controversies surrounding exclusivity clauses and PEDs in the sport. Jones’s outspoken views reflect the tension between athlete compensation, organizational control, and the ethical considerations surrounding the sport’s growth.
Contract Caution: “Please for the Love of God, Read Your Contracts”
In a heartfelt message to the BJJ community, Jones urged athletes to take control of their business dealings and ensure they are fully aware of the terms of any contract they sign.
“Please for the love of god read your contracts. I cannot emphasize this enough,”
he stated in a recent video message. “If a promoter sends you a contract, please take the time to read it.”
Jones pointed out the unique dynamics in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where many athletes do not have managers and must handle their own business negotiations. He emphasized the importance of reviewing contracts carefully, especially considering the lack of oversight that many grapplers have in comparison to those in other combat sports.
Craig Jones Critiques Musumeci’s Stance on PEDs and Exclusivity
Jones also took issue with Mikey Musumeci’s recent remarks on PEDs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Musumeci has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations on PED use within the sport. However, Jones believes that Musumeci’s stance lacks consistency, especially considering his involvement with exclusive contracts and the monetization of the sport.
“Don’t grandstand about ster*ids while simultaneously signing contracts that allow organizations to monopolize the sport,”
Jones commented in a social media post. This remark was in response to Musumeci’s vocal criticism of PEDs, which Jones perceives as a diversion from more pressing issues within BJJ, including the growing influence of exclusive contracts and the centralization of control over major events.
Jones pointed to the ADCC’s practices as an example of what he sees as exploitation of athletes by organizations.
“That’s what we fought back against with ADCC who were selling massive amounts of tickets, getting massive amounts of views and not paying any of the athletes,”
he said. According to Jones, the focus on PEDs detracts from more urgent concerns such as ensuring fair compensation for athletes and maintaining the independence of the sport.
The Australian grappler also expressed concern about the direction BJJ is taking, warning that an influx of major organizations might attempt to monopolize the sport.
“We cannot allow sporting organizations to step into our sport after viewing the success of CJI and seek to monopolize it by locking everyone down into exclusive contracts and putting it behind a paywall,”
Jones cautioned. He believes that BJJ is at a pivotal moment, and premature restrictions could stifle the sport’s potential. “Our sport is not there yet. We’ve just now touching reaching the potential of the growth of the sport,” he explained.
Leveraging Your Position
In addition to his criticism of Musumeci’s stance on PEDs, Jones offered valuable strategic advice to BJJ athletes about how to approach contract negotiations, particularly when it comes to exclusivity clauses. Jones believes that athletes should not shy away from asserting their rights and leveraging their position during contract talks.
“Everything in life is about leverage,”
Jones declared. He emphasized that athletes have the power to negotiate terms that allow for greater flexibility in their careers, particularly when it comes to participating in events outside the purview of exclusive contracts. “If they offer you 100% exclusivity, don’t be afraid to suggest a caveat in there that would allow you to participate in certain special events, whether that’s charity, whether that’s an event that’s going to grow the sport massively.”
Jones’s advice is timely as BJJ athletes are increasingly seeking flexibility in their schedules, balancing competition commitments with personal growth and promotional opportunities.
“You have the leverage to stipulate that in your contract,”
Jones advised, urging athletes not to simply accept what they are offered. “Don’t be like Mike. If you don’t ask, you will not receive and you’ll be forced into 100% exclusivity.”
