In a recent social media post, BJJ black belt Tom Deblass expressed his disappointment and disagreement with the Tackett Brothers’ decision to pull out of the prestigious ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship, opting instead to compete in the Craig Jones Invitational.
The Tackett Brothers, who won the ADCC trials, were initially set to for the esteemed grappling event, considered the Olympics of submission wrestling. However, they have chosen to participate in the Craig Jones Invitational, which boasts a lucrative $1 million (USD) purse. Staggering 100 times more than the ADCC which rewards the winners of divisions with $10,000.
Deblass took issue with the brothers’ decision, emphasizing the prestige and honor that comes with competing in the ADCC. “They won the trials, they were representing our country to compete in the biggest grappling event in the world, our Olympics,” Deblass stated. He questioned the brothers’ decision, suggesting that the $1 million prize money, while substantial, could be earned through instructionals and seminars.
Deblass also expressed concern for the sponsors and fans who invested in the ADCC, as well as those who purchased tickets to attend the event. “Thousands of people bought tickets for ADCC. Now what? They don’t get to see these two exciting competitors,” he lamented.
Furthermore, Deblass implied that the Tackett Brothers’ decision could set a bad precedent, suggesting that other competitors might follow suit. “I don’t believe many competitors will leave ADCC anymore. I don’t think they should. I think it would be very, very silly,” he said.
Deblass acknowledged his admiration for the Tackett Brothers, stating, “I like the Tackett Brothers a lot. Got a lot of love for them boys, they’re fantastic.” However, he reiterated his disagreement with their decision, emphasizing his commitment to attending the ADCC event in August. “I know how much Mo put into it, his heart and soul. This ADCC in August will be second to none. It’s gonna be phenomenal, like ONE FC Level theatrics. It’s gonna be incredible. I’ll be there front row cheering.”
Not sure DeBlass did the competition a favor with the ONE FC comparison considering the difficulty ONE FC has had operating in the last two years with sparring MMA events and focussing on low cost Muay Thai cards in Thailand.
Meanwhile Craig Jones pointed out that tickets that were purchased can be resold. In fact, one ADCC ticket went for between $6,000 and $7,000 on a second hand website which is staggering when you consider most people competing in the ADCC won’t be making any money doing so.
Some question if Craig Jones is inviting members of New Wave despite the fact that Jones’ preliminary list featured their team indiscrimanently.
