Craig Jones continues to redefine the landscape of Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) in Australasia. As the driving force behind some of the region’s biggest grappling events, Jones has inspired and coached a new wave of elite competitors. His influence was clearly on display during the latest Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) regional trials. In this article, we break down the highlights of the CJI Giles Trials, key results, and what lies ahead for the Australasian team.

Craig Jones Invitational: Elevating the Competition

Craig Jones, known for his world-class grappling skills and innovative coaching, has turned the CJI tournaments into must-watch events. The Australia/Asia Giles Trials not only provided a stage for emerging talent, but also set a new standard for team selection in professional grappling. Guided by respected coach Lachlan Giles, the event’s unique format made each match highly competitive and exciting for spectators and participants alike.

For comprehensive details, live updates, and tournament rules, check out the official coverage on FloGrappling.

Trials Results: New Faces and Established Names

The trials used a rigorous tournament structure. There was a 16-man mini-bracket leading into a high-pressure six-man round robin, with spots on the team awarded based on overall performance and submission wins. Standout grapplers included Declan Moody, who secured his position with dominant performances and three submissions, and Belal Etiabari, who clinched the +99kg spot after a close tiebreaker.

Kit Dale, a veteran in the BJJ scene, was another highlight. Although he didn't secure a team spot, his impressive run through the bracket underlined the depth of talent in the region. Moody’s submissions not only earned him a team place but also a $5,000 bonus, emphasizing the CJI’s focus on dynamic, submission-oriented grappling.

For an in-depth recap of how the team was finalized, visit MMAMania’s report on the CJI 2 Trials and the Australasia team lineup.

The Finalized Australasia CJI Team

With the trials concluded, the official Australasian CJI team was announced:

• 66 kg: Fabricio Andrey (wild card)
• 77 kg: Levi Jones-Leary
• 88 kg: Lucas Kanard
• 99 kg: Declan Moody (CJI 2 trials winner)
• +99 kg: Belal Etiabari (CJI 2 trials runner-up)
• Coach: Lachlan Giles

This lineup blends young stars with proven veterans, reflecting the depth and diversity of talent that Craig Jones has helped cultivate. The addition of Andrey, an IBJJF world champion, boosts the team's international profile and competitive edge.

Craig Jones: Beyond the Mat

Craig Jones isn’t just a competitor; he’s a coach and ambassador for grappling. His recent involvement in helping UFC world champion Jack Della Maddalena achieve his goals is further proof of his growing impact on combat sports both in Australasia and worldwide. The B-Team, Jones' own squad, continues to develop top-tier athletes and innovative approaches to both no-gi and gi competition.

To stay updated on team changes, event schedules, and more insights into the Australasian BJJ scene, don’t miss the latest Grappling Bulletin from FloGrappling.

Conclusion: Craig Jones and the Future of Australasian Grappling

The recent CJI Australia/Asia Trials have set a new benchmark for what’s possible in regional BJJ tournaments. Craig Jones' commitment continues to drive the sport’s growth, turning personal achievement into lasting legacy. As the team prepares for the upcoming CJI 2 in Las Vegas, all eyes will be on the athletes Jones has helped prepare.

Whether you're a fan, practitioner, or simply intrigued by the rise of grappling down under, following Craig Jones and the Australasian BJJ scene promises plenty of action and innovation. Stay tuned for more updates and brilliant moments inspired by Jones’ leadership.