Craig Jones has harshly criticized athletes who accept undisclosed “show money” payments, saying it sells out future generations. In a video posted online, Jones stated “If you’re an athlete taking secret show money, you’re selling out future generations. We’re trying to raise pay transparently, not maintain the status quo.”
Jones’ comments come as he has launched a new grappling event called the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) that aims to drastically increase prize money payouts. The CJI will feature $1 million prizes for the winners of both the under and over 80kg men’s divisions. This is a massive increase from traditional grappling shows like ADCC, where first place historically only paid $10,000.
Several top grapplers have already announced they are declining their ADCC 2024 invitations to instead compete at the inaugural CJI, lured by the seven-figure paydays. This includes former ADCC champions like Matheus Diniz and Lucas “Hulk” Barbosa making big weight class changes to enter the stacked under 80kg bracket.
While a huge financial gamble for Jones as the promoter, the CJI represents his bold vision to disrupt the sport’s economics and force better compensation for athletes. He has explained “I competed for many shows for free… I want to leverage that position to make it better for everyone else.”
Only time will tell if the CJI model is sustainable, but Jones’ efforts have sparked a heated debate around transparency, athlete pay, and the obligations promoters and competitors have to grow their sport.
Grapplers Mica Galvao and Diogo Reis are expected to announce where they will be competing soon. It would be a huge blow for the ADCC if they lose the Melqui Galvao students.
