In a surprise move, comedian and Brazilian jiu-jitsu blue belt Joey “Coco” Diaz is reportedly in talks to corner Craig Jones for his highly anticipated super fight against Gabi Garcia. The matchup between the elite grapplers Jones and Garcia is being billed as potentially the biggest intergender event ever in the sport of submission grappling.
Diaz, who is best known for his standup comedy, acting roles, and appearances on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, has been practicing jiu-jitsu since 2016 under Alberto Crane. While only a blue belt, the comedian is a passionate advocate for the art and its benefits, both physical and mental.
“I love it. I’m so bad at it and I love it. I am hooked,” Diaz said about jiu-jitsu in a previous interview. “I go and get choked out…I leave there feeling great. I don’t focus on when I get choked out by a 26-year-old kid.”
Even though he’s an older practitioner still learning the fundamentals, Diaz’s enthusiasm and unique comedic perspective could provide an entertaining dynamic as Jones’ cornerman against the formidable Garcia. The 4-time ADCC champion Garcia was emotional in her decision to accept the lucrative super fight opportunity against Jones rather than compete at ADCC again this year.
With Diaz’s flair for storytelling and appreciation for the difficulties of jiu-jitsu, he may be the perfect fit to lighten the mood and keep Jones focused during his biggest career challenge yet against the grappling phenom Garcia. Fans can expect Diaz’s notorious honesty and humor to be on full display cornering the marquee match between Jones and Garcia on August 16-17th in Las Vegas.
