The upcoming CJI 2 event is pushing the boundaries of jiu-jitsu tournaments—and John Danaher is making sure the spotlight is firmly on Giancarlo Bodoni. During a recent New Wave training session at Kingsway Gym, Danaher praised Bodoni as the most accomplished ADCC middleweight in history.
“Giancarlo Bodoni, You all know him from ADCC. He’s the most successful ADCC middleweight of all time. The only man to win two gold medals in that weight division.” — John Danaher
Danaher didn’t just point to medals. He called Bodoni “one of the most well-rounded athletes in jiu-jitsu history,” highlighting his balance between top and bottom game, standing and ground, and his ability to maintain relentless control.
“He plays top and bottom equally well. He plays standing and ground equally well. He does everything extraordinarily well.”
Danaher described Bodoni as someone who rarely makes errors, applies pressure constantly, and brings a high-level drive to win.
“The quintessential example of error-free jiu-jitsu where he makes very very few errors, puts tremendous physical pressure on opponents and has a great will to win.”
That mindset is exactly what makes Bodoni central to New Wave’s strategy heading into CJI 2. The tournament, organized by Craig Jones, is designed to create unpredictable matchups and remove traditional barriers between weight classes. It’s a format that rewards adaptability—and that’s where Bodoni thrives.
With Danaher fully backing him, Bodoni enters CJI 2 as one of the most dangerous grapplers in the bracket. His experience, physicality, and clean style give New Wave a serious edge.
CJI 2 takes place August 30th and 31st at Thomas and Mack Arena.
