The Australian grappling superstar has made his feelings crystal clear about the UFC’s newest venture into Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
In several Instagram posts that have fans buzzing, Jones didn’t hold back his frustration with what he perceives as blatant copying of his successful Craig Jones Invitational format.
“People think I’m taking this UFC BJJ very personal but I wish their finale today all the success in the world,”
Jones said with unmistakable sarcasm.
“Obviously, they stole the pit, the rules, the judges, they’re blocking staff from working our event but I hope the finale goes off with a bang today.”
What has many in the combat sports community particularly concerned is the potential fallout – there are rumors UFC will block him from coaching current UFC champions Alex Volkanovski and Jack Della Maddalena.
Jones has been instrumental in the grappling development of several elite UFC stars, most notably working extensively with welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena before his recent title victory. The Australian coach’s expertise has also been sought after by other high-profile athletes in the promotion, making his current stance against the UFC organization particularly awkward.
The situation became even more complex when Jones revealed on social media that the UFC BJJ had made him a substantial offer.
“UFC offered me 6 figures to coach against Mikey and compete against him but would have been fully exclusive,”
he disclosed, highlighting the exclusive nature of such arrangements that could potentially lock athletes out of other major competitions.
Jones expressed deep concern about the direction the sport is heading, warning that
“The sport is now entering an era where athletes won’t be able to do ADCC or CJI.”
Adding another layer to the controversy, Jones revealed a particularly telling detail about the UFC’s approach to exclusivity.
“Until I formerly declined coaching the UFCBJJ show, their athletes could compete in CJI,”
he shared, suggesting that the organization’s policies may be creating artificial barriers between different grappling promotions.
Fans are now speculating whether his public criticism of the UFC could result in restrictions that prevent him from continuing his coaching relationships with current champions. This concern isn’t unfounded, given the UFC’s history of taking strong positions when individuals publicly criticize the organization.
Jones‘ next CJI event is scheduled for end of August at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, where he’s set to face Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in what promises to be a marquee matchup.
The grappling world finds itself at a crossroads, with established promotions like ADCC, emerging powerhouses like CJI, and now the UFC’s deep pockets all vying for the sport’s top talent. Jones‘ public stance represents more than just personal grievances – it highlights fundamental questions about athlete freedom and the future structure of competitive Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
