The Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) is set to return in 2025 with a fresh format, a Las Vegas spectacle, and a fiery roster of grappling talent. After its explosive debut in 2024, CJI is doubling down on innovation—and controversy. Here’s your go-to guide for CJI 2025, including confirmed athletes, prize money, and why this event is ruffling feathers in the BJJ world.
CJI 2025: Dates, Venue & New Team Format
The 2025 Craig Jones Invitational will storm into Las Vegas from 30-31 August 2025, taking over the T-Mobile Arena, a 20,000-seat venue famed for hosting UFC and blockbuster concerts.
But the real headline? CJI is partnering with Quintet, the iconic team-based grappling promotion, to introduce a hybrid format. Athletes will compete in both individual matches and Quintet-style team battles, blending CJI’s submission-only rules with Quintet’s elimination system. Craig Jones calls it “the ultimate test of grappling IQ”—critics are already divided.
The $1 Million Prize Pool: Equal Pay, Bigger Stakes
As with its inaugural event, CJI 2025 boasts a US100,000, while runners-up claim US$50,000. The purse has forced rivals like ADCC to reassess their payouts, with CJI cementing itself as the sport’s most lucrative stage.
Athletes Announced (So Far)
While the full lineup is still taking shape, CJI has confirmed several marquee names. Notably absent? Gordon Ryan, who announced via Instagram he’s “sitting this one out” to focus on ADCC 2025 read his statement HERE.
Here’s who is possibly stepping onto the mats:
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Kaynan Duarte (Brazil)
Bio: The 2024 ADCC absolute champion, Duarte’s crushing pressure and tactical brilliance make him a favourite in the -99kg division. -
Ffion Davies (Wales)
Bio: Reigning CJI 2024 champ and ADCC standout, Davies’ surgical passing and relentless pace dominate the women’s -60kg bracket. -
Nicky Rodriguez (USA)
Bio: “Nicky Rod” brings his trademark explosive wrestling to CJI’s -99kg division. Fresh off ADCC silver, he’s hungry for gold. -
Mica Galvao (Brazil)
Bio: The 21-year-old prodigy, known for his electric scrambles and leglocks, could steal the show in the -85kg class. -
Amy Campo (USA)
Bio: A dark horse in the women’s -70kg division, Campo’s slick back takes and guard retention turned heads at ADCC 2024. -
Diogo Reis (Brazil)
Bio: The 2024 IBJJF World Champ’s precision and speed make him a threat in CJI’s -77kg bracket.
Controversy: Format Shakeups & Gordon Ryan’s No-Show
CJI 2025 isn’t avoiding drama. The Quintet partnership has split opinions, with traditionalists arguing team formats dilute individual glory. Others praise the fresh approach: “It’s a ripper way to showcase different skills,” said Craig Jones in a recent interview.
Meanwhile, Gordon Ryan’s withdrawal sparked speculation. Is he avoiding CJI’s submission-only rules? Or clashing with Jones? Ryan’s cryptic post—“I don’t need CJI to prove I’m the GOAT”—fuelled the fire. Fans are divided, with some calling it a “massive letdown” for the event.
Why CJI 2025 Could Redefine Grappling
Love it or hate it, CJI is pushing boundaries. The Quintet collab prioritises entertainment, while the Vegas stage aims to attract casual fans. As Jones told FloGrappling: “We’re here to make grappling mainstream, not just for purists.”
With equal pay, innovative formats, and a Vegas glitz factor, CJI 2025 might just be the tipping point for BJJ’s global takeover.
Final Thoughts
Mark August 2025 in your diary: CJI is set to deliver chaos, creativity, and career-changing moments. Whether you’re here for the submissions, the schmozzles, or the sheer spectacle, this is one event you won’t wanna miss.