Craig Jones

The Australian Sensation Revolutionizing No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu

Name: Craig Jones

Current Rank: Black belt under Lachlan Giles

Notable Achievements:

IBJJF World No-Gi Champion (2015, purple belt)
2x ADCC Trials champion
Polaris 205 lbs and 185 lbs Champion

Lineage: Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Carlos Gracie Jr --> Jean Jacques Machado --> John Will --> John Simon --> Lachlan Giles --> Craig Jones

From the rugged terrains of Australia to the elite mats of ADCC, Craig Jones has shattered expectations, becoming a juggernaut in the world of no-gi jiu-jitsu.

Early Life

Born on a chilly winter day on July 17, 1991, in Adelaide, South Australia, Craig Jones was anything but an ordinary kid. With a natural affinity for rough-and-tumble sports like Australian rules football and basketball, he was a whirlwind of energy. Although he dabbled in taekwondo and judo, it wasn't until his cousin Matt Jones opened a BJJ academy that Craig found his true calling. The influence of family, albeit indirect, guided him into the world of grappling.

Initial Training and Influences

Craig's initial foray into martial arts was more than just a hobby—it was a dream of becoming a UFC fighter. At the age of 15, he joined his cousin Matt's BJJ academy, ISOHEALTH, setting the stage for a journey that would take him far beyond the Australian shores. As he honed his skills, he transitioned to the Maromba Academy in Melbourne, later renamed Absolute MMA, where he trained under the watchful eye of Lachlan Giles.

Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu

The path to becoming a serious competitor was fraught with challenges and milestones. Craig's early years were a blend of rigorous training, mentorship, and a series of competitions that tested his mettle. Under the tutelage of Lachlan Giles and later John Danaher, he began to make a name for himself in Australia's national grappling circuit. But it wasn't just about the wins and losses; it was the influential figures like Giles and Danaher who shaped his approach to the sport, instilling in him a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Ascension to Prominence

If there was a moment that marked Craig's arrival on the global stage, it was his stunning performance at the 2017 ADCC finals. Submitting the tournament's 88-kilogram #1 seed, Leandro Lo, he sent shockwaves through the jiu-jitsu community. But Craig was no one-hit-wonder. He continued to dominate, developing a lethal leg lock game that has become his signature. From Polaris to ADCC, he's been a fixture in high-profile matches, often leaving his opponents tangled and defeated.

Achievements and Titles

Craig's trophy cabinet is a testament to his skill and dedication. With titles like Polaris 205 lbs and 185 lbs Champion, 2x ADCC Trials champion, and an IBJJF World No-Gi Championship at the purple belt level, he's proven that he's not just another competitor—he's a force to be reckoned with.

Personal Philosophy and Style

In a sport often divided between gi and no-gi, traditionalists and modernists, Craig Jones stands as a unifying figure. His focus on no-gi jiu-jitsu, particularly effective in MMA, has made him a favorite among fans and practitioners alike. Known for his open guard and a devastating leg lock game, he's a stylistic nightmare for anyone who faces him on the mat.

Current Endeavors and Legacy

Today, Craig is more than just a competitor; he's a pioneer. Representing the B-Team, a workgroup he started alongside a few of his former Danaher Death Squad teammates, he's pushing the boundaries of what's possible in jiu-jitsu. His contributions to the leg lock game and no-gi jiu-jitsu have already cemented his status as one of the best grapplers of his generation.

Conclusion

Craig Jones is not just a product of his environment or his training; he's a testament to what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and a little bit of that Aussie grit. As he continues to innovate and dominate, one thing is clear: Craig Jones is not just shaping his legacy; he's shaping the future of the sport itself. Keep your eyes peeled; the best is yet to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Craig Jones

General Information

Q: Who is Craig Jones?
A: Craig Jones is an Australian professional grappler and jiu-jitsu black belt under Lachlan Giles. He is known for his expertise in no-gi jiu-jitsu and has gained prominence in high-level competitions like ADCC and Polaris.

Q: What is Craig Jones known for in the BJJ community?
A: Craig Jones is renowned for his aggressive submission-oriented style, particularly his leg lock game. He has become a household name in the world of no-gi jiu-jitsu.

Q: What is Craig Jones' current rank in BJJ?
A: Craig Jones holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under Lachlan Giles.

Q: What is Craig Jones' lineage in jiu-jitsu?
A: Craig Jones' lineage is Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Carlos Gracie Jr --> Jean Jacques Machado --> John Will --> John Simon --> Lachlan Giles --> Craig Jones.

Training and Influences

Q: Who are Craig Jones' mentors and training partners?
A: Craig Jones has trained under Lachlan Giles and has also worked extensively with John Danaher. He has been a part of teams like the Danaher Death Squad and the B-Team.

Q: What is Craig Jones' relationship with John Danaher?
A: Craig Jones has trained under John Danaher, particularly during his time in New York City, and has been influenced by Danaher's teaching methodologies.

Q: How did Craig Jones become a part of the B-Team?
A: Craig Jones is one of the founding members of the B-Team, a workgroup he started alongside a few of his former Danaher Death Squad teammates.

Q: What is Craig Jones' training philosophy?
A: Craig Jones focuses on no-gi jiu-jitsu with an emphasis on aggressive submissions, particularly leg locks.

Competitions and Rivalries

Q: What are some of Craig Jones' notable achievements?
A: Some of his notable achievements include being a 2x ADCC Trials champion, Polaris 205 lbs and 185 lbs Champion, and IBJJF World No-Gi Champion at the purple belt level.

Q: Who are some of Craig Jones' most famous opponents?
A: Craig Jones has faced high-level competitors like Gordon Ryan, Gabi Garcia, Tim Spriggs, Pedro Marinho, Tye Ruotolo, and Nicholas Meregali.

Q: What is the history between Craig Jones and Gordon Ryan?
A: Craig Jones and Gordon Ryan have faced each other in competition, and both are considered among the top no-gi grapplers in the world. They have also trained together and share mutual respect.

Q: Have Craig Jones and Gabi Garcia ever competed against each other?
A: Yes, Craig Jones and Gabi Garcia have had a grappling match, which was a special event and attracted a lot of attention due to the size and skill difference.

Techniques and Style

Q: What are Craig Jones' signature techniques?
A: Craig Jones is known for his leg lock game, particularly heel hooks. He also has a course called "Down Under Leg Attacks."

Q: What is "Down Under Leg Attacks" by Craig Jones?
A: "Down Under Leg Attacks" is an instructional course by Craig Jones that focuses on his signature leg lock techniques.

Q: What is unique about Craig Jones' pinning techniques?
A: Craig Jones employs a variety of innovative pinning techniques to control his opponents, often leading to successful submission attempts.

Products and Media

Q: Where can I find Craig Jones' BJJ tutorials?
A: Craig Jones has several instructional courses available on platforms like BJJ Fanatics.

Q: What are some popular BJJ Fanatics courses by Craig Jones?
A: Some popular courses include "Down Under Leg Attacks," and various other specialized technique courses.

Q: Does Craig Jones have a website for his instructional content?
A: As of January 2022, Craig Jones does not have a dedicated website for his instructional content, but his courses are widely available on platforms like BJJ Fanatics.

Opinions and Perspectives

Q: What does Gordon Ryan say about Craig Jones?
A: Gordon Ryan has expressed respect for Craig Jones' skills and considers him one of the top no-gi grapplers in the world.

Q: How is Craig Jones viewed in the BJJ community?
A: Craig Jones is highly respected in the BJJ community for his technical prowess, aggressive style, and contributions to the sport.

Miscellaneous

Q: Is Craig Jones active on social media?
A: Yes, Craig Jones is active on various social media platforms where he shares updates about his training, competitions, and instructional content.