Bodoni on how John Danaher chose CJI2 Team and Trials Participants: It’s all merit based

John Davis

In a recent interview, accomplished grappler Bodoni shared insights into coach John Danaher‘s approach to team selection for upcoming competitions, highlighting the legendary instructor’s commitment to fairness and performance-based assessment.

“John just recently announced what our team was going to be,” Bodoni explained. “We have basically all of our guys that were at ADCC, so kind of the obvious picks for all the divisions.”

However, the team faces a unique challenge in the 77kg weight class, where multiple high-caliber athletes are vying for limited spots. Rather than making arbitrary selections based on reputation or previous achievements, Danaher has opted for a more objective approach.

“Because we have so many guys at 77 that are all super good, I think that John thought that—and everybody wants to do it obviously—it’s kind of hard to say ‘let’s pick this guy over that guy,'” Bodoni noted.

The solution, according to Bodoni, perfectly reflects Danaher’s coaching philosophy:

“John’s whole philosophy is let’s have it be merit-based. Let’s see who’s going to perform best at the time under that rule set and just have them compete.”

The trials will determine who represents the team in the competitive 77kg division, though details about the selection process remain limited.

“I don’t know when that’s going to take place or how that’s going to look like,” Bodoni admitted, “but it should be interesting, and I think whoever [emerges victorious will be deserving].”

This approach underscores Danaher’s reputation as a methodical coach who values objective performance metrics over subjective factors when making important team decisions.

Fans and competitors alike await further announcements regarding the timing and format of these trials, which promise to showcase elite talent competing for coveted team positions.

Confirmed Teams & Team Members for CJI 2 (Craig Jones Invitational)

10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Roster – Coach: Eddie Bravo

Eddie Bravo brings a stacked team of veterans and finishers to CJI 2, anchored by Martinez and Boehm.

New Wave Jiu-Jitsu Roster – Coach: John Danaher

Led by the legendary John Danaher, New Wave’s team is one of the most technical and dominant line-ups this season.

B-Team Roster – Coach: Dima Murovanni

Nick Rodriguez and Victor Hugo, former rivals, join forces under B-Team in a must-watch pairing for CJI 2.

Team Atos – Coach: Andre Galvao

  • 66 kg: TBA
  • 77 kg: TBA
  • 88 kg: TBA
  • 99 kg: TBA
  • +99 kg: Felipe Pena — Wild Card Pick

With Felipe Pena confirmed, expect Atos to bring their signature intensity and technical excellence.

Team Australasia – Coach: Lachlan Giles

Australasia fields a well-rounded team with ADCC-tested athletes and rising talent.

Team Americas – Coach: Greg Souders

  • 66 kg: Deandre Corbe — 2025 Sapateiro Invitational Champion
  • 77 kg: TBA
  • 88 kg: TBA
  • 99 kg: TBA
  • +99 kg: TBA

Team Americas is still finalizing its full roster but already shows strong promise with Deandre Corbe at 66 kg.

Team Europe – Coach: Faris Benlamkadem

Team Europe’s depth in the heavier weight classes makes them a serious threat at CJI 2.

Team 8 – Coach: TBA

  • 66 kg: TBA
  • 77 kg: TBA
  • 88 kg: TBA
  • 99 kg: TBA
  • +99 kg: TBA

Final team yet to be revealed. Stay tuned for updates as more names are confirmed.

 

John Davis