Gordon Ryan embraces the loss of his likeability, gloats over CJI 2 misfortune

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world witnessed another chapter in Gordon Ryan‘s transformation from celebrated champion to polarizing figure as he publicly celebrated the misfortune that befell Craig Jones‘ high-profile tournament. When Olympic wrestling champion Gable Stevenson withdrew from the Craig Jones Invitational 2 main event just six days before competition, Ryan seized the moment to unleash a scathing commentary that revealed just how comfortable he’s become with being the sport’s most divisive personality.

“Gable pulling out of the main event of cgi 2 and then going to compete less than 2 weeks later on UFC fight pass is such a baller move by UFC, who has been attacked non stop for unknown reasons by cj,”

Ryan wrote in a social media post that dripped with barely concealed satisfaction. His analysis of the situation painted Jones as a naive promoter who failed to protect his own interests:

“I bet cj never put a pull out clause in there for gable, which would penalize him for pulling out. Im sure there wasn’t. Otherwise, Gable wouldn’t have pulled out.”

The timing of Stevenson’s withdrawal certainly raised eyebrows throughout the grappling community. Craig Jones had announced the news with characteristic bluntness:

“Gable out. Sorry guys.”

He later added what appeared to be sarcastic commentary about the wrestler’s claimed injury:

“Sorry my toe hurts”

and

“Hope his toe miraculously heals,”

suggesting skepticism about the legitimacy of the medical excuse.

What made the withdrawal particularly controversial was its proximity to Stevenson’s scheduled MMA debut at LFA in September just 21 days after CJI 2. The apparent contradiction of being too injured to grapple but healthy enough to prepare for full-contact MMA competition fueled speculation about the real reasons behind his exit.

Ryan’s response revealed a man who has not only accepted but embraced his role as the sport’s primary antagonist. Rather than showing any sympathy for a fellow promoter’s predicament he weaponized the situation to launch a broader attack on Jones’ capabilities and prospects.

“Im sure Gable read thorough through the contract before signing thanks to the advocacy about this matter from cj,”

he continued, the sarcasm practically dripping from his words.

“Now, cj can’t compete any real jj guy bec he will surely lose (like always) and likely won’t have time to find another joke match in time. My man can’t win at anything.”

The post concluded with Ryan’s signature self-aggrandizement:

“At least im still untouchable,”

complete with a crown emoji that has become his calling card across social media platforms.

What’s particularly telling about Ryan’s response is how it illustrates his complete abandonment of the diplomatic restraint that once characterized elite athletes. The former ADCC champion seems to have calculated that notoriety serves his brand better than respectability and he’s leaning into that persona with remarkable consistency.

The community’s reaction to Ryan’s commentary was swift and merciless. Within hours of his post he had disabled comments across his social media platforms—a move that has become routine for the controversial figure. The irony wasn’t lost on observers who noted that someone claiming to be “untouchable” appeared quite concerned about public criticism.

Whether this strategy ultimately serves Ryan’s long-term interests remains to be seen. But his gleeful response to a competitor’s misfortune reveals an athlete who has fully embraced his role as the sport’s primary heel seemingly unconcerned with the bridges he burns along the way. Including his own teammates who are the favorites to win the tournament.

CJI happens August 30th and 31st in Las Vegas.