In an exciting development for the competitive jiu-jitsu world, Craig Jones has revealed Adele Fornarino as the second participant in the women’s bracket for the upcoming Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) 2.
Fornarino, a decorated athlete with two ADCC gold medals to her name, joins previously announced competitor Helena Crevar in what is shaping up to be a star-studded four-woman tournament.
Jones highlighted Fornarino’s recent accomplishments during his announcement, noting she is “fresh off a UFC BJJ victory, claiming the foot of Fionn Davies.” This win further cements Fornarino’s reputation as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
The event is generating significant buzz not only for its high-caliber talent but also for its unprecedented prize structure. According to Jones, this will be “the highest-paid women’s division in the history of the sport,” marking a milestone for women’s jiu-jitsu.
In the same announcement, Jones shared personal plans to travel to Ukraine.
“Tomorrow I’m heading to Ukraine to see my boys out there and train with them, give the money from the proceeds of this seminar tour,” he stated.
Jones reportedly raised $100,000 to support Ukraine.
Jones also added a characteristic touch of humor, noting that should anything happen to him during his travels, he has made provisions:
“If you don’t hear from me, you know where to find me. But don’t worry, if something happens to me, my will, I’ve set up a trust. And that trust is for idiots that signed a 15-in-15 deal. I’m always thinking of you boys, no matter what.”
This is a clear refrence to the UFC offering grapplers $15,000 to show, $15,000 if they submit contracts. For refrence, average McDonald’s Manager yearly pay in the United States is approximately $55,767.
With two competitors now confirmed and two more yet to be announced, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a landmark event in competitive jiu-jitsu.
CJI 2 happens August 30th and 31st.
