Craig Jones has addressed mounting speculation that the UFC may have interfered with his CJI 2 event following Olympic wrestler Gable Steveson‘s withdrawal just days before the competition. In a candid interview, the Australian grappler discussed the chaotic lead-up to his second annual event and the conspiracy theories surrounding the main event collapse.
The drama began when Steveson, who had signed a contract with Jones prior to losing to Wyatt Hendrickson, began showing signs of disengagement from the event.
“Gable really put no effort in. I think he collaborated on three posts of which the sad little bastard has since removed himself,”
Jones revealed, expressing frustration at the Olympic medalist’s lack of promotional commitment.
Jones admitted he should have been more prepared with backup plans particularly as Steveson proved difficult to communicate with throughout the process. The situation deteriorated further when Steveson’s management attempted to book him for a “dirty boxing match” just two days before CJI 2, raising red flags about their commitment to the grappling event.
The controversy deepened when Gordon Ryan posted what appeared to be insider knowledge about the situation on social media. When asked about Ryan’s involvement, Jones was characteristically blunt:
“What he posted if true is f***ing illegal.”
However, Jones stopped short of making direct accusations while acknowledging the speculation surrounding potential UFC interference.
“Would it shock or surprise me that they would sabotage my main event if given the power to do so? And given Gable’s aspirations to compete in the UFC and considering he has a LFA match two weeks after the magically appearing and disappearing turf does add very many questions,”
Jones stated, referencing Steveson’s convenient injury and subsequent LFA booking.
The situation highlighted broader issues within combat sports promotion according to Jones. He noted that several UFC athletes expressed interest in stepping in as replacements but were ultimately unable to participate.
“Every single UFC athlete despite the contract they don’t know how to read have to really get approval,”
Jones explained, suggesting the promotion’s influence extends beyond their official roster.
“Whether it’s in writing or not whether that whatever they say whatever they think they can do at the end of the day the UFC have enough power. So like there was some there were a few UFC guys wanting the match and stuff saying I’d step in. But really like hey unfortunately you have to kiss the ring to get in and if the ring holder does not like you then he’s not going to allow you to be a part of my show.”
Ultimately, Chael Sonnen stepped in to save the event, earning Jones’s gratitude and respect.
“I firmly believe that if anyone at the UFC Dana White included said hey do not do this. Chael be like I will do whatever the f*** I want to do,”
Jones said, praising Sonnen’s independence and willingness to support the grappling community.
While Jones maintains he’s not directly accusing the UFC of sabotage his comments reflect the complex power dynamics within combat sports and the challenges independent promoters face when dealing with MMA stars connected to major organizations.
