Eoghan O’Flanagan asked for money to participate in CJI 2 Trials

John Davis

In a revealing episode of “On Borrowed Time” with Craig Jones, the controversial absence of prominent European grappler Eoghan O’Flanagan from the European Misfits trials for CJI 2 was finally addressed.

Jones, the mastermind behind the Craig Jones Invitational series, explained that despite O’Flanagan’s stellar reputation and ADCC performance record, financial demands became the ultimate roadblock to his participation.

“Well, he did say he had a seminar booked for that time period. I believe it was in Belgium, but he was able to show up to the event and I was able to get him dr- nk and make sure he missed his flight. So, he could have competed. There was no conflict of interest there,” Jones revealed during the interview.

The real issue, according to Jones, came down to compensation.

“Eoghan wanted to be fairly compensated to compete against these two guys in the tournament and we really didn’t have the budget to stretch to include him to get the compensation he feels he deserves,” Jones explained. “Obviously would have been lovely to have Eoghan in the event, but couldn’t do it. Couldn’t afford it.”

Coach Ferris, who organized the European trials, corroborated this account, stating:

“I would have loved him to do the trials. Obviously, I tried to ask him and stuff. Unfortunately, he doesn’t want to do it without getting paid, but ultimately you’re getting compensated based on winning the trials.”

The situation highlights the ongoing tension between athlete compensation and opportunity in professional grappling. While many competitors participated in the trials for the chance to earn a spot on the European Misfits team, O’Flanagan’s position was that his established reputation warranted guaranteed payment.

Jones even speculated that O’Flanagan likely would have dominated the competition had he participated:

“I think he probably would have taken out that bracket to be honest, but we couldn’t afford the cheap b******.”

Despite his absence from the trials, O’Flanagan still secured a spot on the European Misfits team at 66kg, joining a roster that includes Paul Ardilla (as the wild card), Charles Negromonte, Marcin Maciulewicz, , and Pawel Jaworski.

The CJI 2 event is scheduled for August 30-31 at the Thomas & Mack Arena, with tickets available through the CJI2.com mailing list before public sale.

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