Craig Jones, the enigmatic Australian grappler and promoter behind the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI), recently appeared on The Ariel Helwani Show to discuss the upcoming CJI 2 and address the elephant in the room: the UFC’s apparent adoption of his innovative tournament format.
The success of his inaugural event, which featured a unique pit-style competition area and million-dollar prizes, seems to have caught the attention of the UFC, who launched their own Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program with striking similarities to Jones’ creation.
Jones doesn’t mince words about the situation.
“I made a blend. I stole from a bunch of different people to put something together and they basically slightly adjusted the finishing product which is the pit,”
he said. The pit itself was inspired by Karate Combat, which Jones openly credits and has a licensing agreement with. The difference, he argues, is acknowledgment.
“I do like to take other people’s ideas, but I do like to give people credit.”
The UFC’s version has been dubbed “UFC BJJ” and features the same three five-minute round format that Jones pioneered for grappling, though Jones notes he originally adapted this from MMA.
“It’s a catch 22, right? Because I think we decisively proved that that format that we sort of created is the best format for grappling,”
Jones explained.
What particularly irks Jones is the lack of recognition from the UFC.
“If they would have given you credit, would you have been okay with this?”
host Ariel Helwani asked. Jones’ response highlighted the complex nature of the situation: while he appreciates that his format is being used to improve grappling as a spectacle, basic professional courtesy would have been appreciated.
The situation has created a fascinating dynamic in the grappling world. Jones revealed that he had discussions with UFC executives Hunter Campbell and others about potentially being involved in their reality show, but ultimately declined due to what he felt was an unfair offer and restrictive exclusivity clauses.
“They made an offer. I thought it was not a fair offer for the time commitment and what I would have to give away in terms of the exclusivity type of deal there.”
This exclusivity issue represents a fundamental shift in grappling culture.
“The culture and the spirit of your community is like, ‘Hey, you could pop up at this event, at this event. Like, you’re just sort of free to compete,'”
Helwani observed. Jones confirmed this concern:
“Without a shadow of a doubt that is basically the negotiation point for them. Are you an enemy? Are you a friend? There’s really no gray area in between.”
Despite the apparent tension, Jones maintains his focus on growing the sport. For CJI 2, scheduled for August 30–31 in Las Vegas, he’s switching formats to a team-based quintet-style competition, deliberately choosing to innovate rather than simply repeat his successful formula.
“I didn’t just want to rest on that and redo the same thing. I want to keep it moving, keep it exciting.”
The event will feature eight teams of five competitors each, competing for a $1 million prize pool. Jones has secured real teams like Danaher‘s New Wave (now rebranded as King’s Way), B Team, Daisy Fresh, and 10th Planet, alongside regional super teams representing Australia/Asia, Europe, and America.
Jones’ approach to competition promotion continues to push boundaries, with his main event featuring an intriguing matchup against Olympic gold medalist Gable Stevenson. This David vs. Goliath scenario exemplifies Jones’ understanding of spectacle and his ability to create compelling narratives that draw in casual fans.
The broader implications of this “copycat” situation extend beyond mere intellectual property concerns. Jones sees himself as fighting for athlete leverage and compensation in a sport that has traditionally undervalued its competitors.
“What I’m trying to make sure is there is an alternative that’s a big event that’s a big platform that you can at least use it to leverage a better deal if you choose to go under these exclusive contracts.”
Whether this competition ultimately benefits the sport and its athletes remains to be seen, but Jones’ willingness to continually innovate suggests he won’t be content to simply react to copycats—he’ll keep pushing the boundaries of what grappling competition can be.
