Craig Jones: Grappling Genius Who Kissed & Choked His Way to BJJ Stardom

B Team Jiu-Jitsu and Leadership

The breakup of the Danaher Death Squad in July 2021 sent shockwaves through the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world. It was like the Beatles breaking up, only with more leg locks and fewer guitars. But instead of wallowing in the split, Craig Jones did what he does best: he turned the situation into an opportunity. Enter B Team Jiu-Jitsu, a new grappling powerhouse that Craig co-founded in Austin, Texas. It was a fresh start, and if you know anything about Craig, you know he loves to keep things fresh—whether it’s his techniques or his Instagram posts.

So why did Craig leave the legendary Danaher Death Squad? Was there drama? A fallout? In typical Craig fashion, he joked, “We broke up because I was tired of seeing John Danaher in a rash guard all the time. The man just doesn’t wear normal clothes.” Of course, there’s more to the story than wardrobe complaints. The truth is, the split was about the team wanting to pursue different directions. Danaher’s highly disciplined approach was world-class, but Craig and a few others wanted a more laid-back, creative environment to thrive. B Team was born out of that desire to mix elite grappling with a more relaxed vibe—one where you could go from dominating a match to making memes about it without skipping a beat.

Leadership Role at B Team
If Danaher’s gym was known for its military-like discipline, B Team Jiu-Jitsu is more like a rebellious rock band. And at the helm of this rock band is Craig Jones, the frontman who’s as much about mentorship as he is about breaking ankles. Craig’s leadership style isn’t about barking orders or micromanaging; it’s about fostering creativity and letting his team members experiment with their styles. He’s more of a “lead by example” kind of guy, which means showing his teammates how to balance world-class performance with a dash of humor.

Craig’s coaching philosophy at B Team revolves around one key principle: don’t take yourself too seriously, but take your training seriously. He’s often seen joking around with his teammates, but the second they step onto the mat, it’s all business. His approach is about finding that perfect balance between fun and focus. As Craig puts it, “You can be a killer on the mats and still be the funniest guy in the room. It’s all about balance, like a perfectly executed triangle choke.”

Team Dynamics
At B Team, Craig works closely with a talented group of grapplers, including Nicky Ryan, Nicky Rod (Nick Rodriguez), and Ethan Crelinsten. Each of these guys brings something unique to the table, and together, they form a team that’s as dangerous as it is unpredictable. Nicky Ryan, the younger brother of Gordon Ryan, is known for his technical brilliance, while Nicky Rod brings the intensity of a wrestler combined with a no-gi submission game. Ethan Crelinsten is the wild card, always pushing the envelope with his unorthodox techniques.

The team dynamic at B Team isn’t just about following Craig’s lead; it’s about collaboration. Craig isn’t afraid to learn from his teammates, and they’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other, whether it’s a new submission setup or the latest meme format. It’s a true collective, where everyone’s input is valued, and that’s what makes B Team so dangerous—no one’s stuck in their ways, and they’re always evolving.

Craig has managed to create a space where innovation thrives, and the results speak for themselves. B Team has quickly become one of the most talked-about teams in the BJJ world, not just for their performances in competitions but also for their social media presence. Craig’s leadership style has allowed them to blend high-level competition with a fun, approachable attitude, making them a fan favorite.

Coaching Career

Craig Jones isn’t just a competitor—he’s also one of the most sought-after coaches in the world of combat sports. His transition from athlete to coach was as smooth as his transitions from one submission to the next. While he still actively competes, Craig has taken on the role of mentor for some of the top athletes in the fight game, most notably in the UFC.

Coaching UFC Fighters
One of Craig’s most high-profile coaching roles is with UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski. Now, if you think Volkanovski was already a beast before, Craig took him and added a whole new layer of submission danger. Craig’s coaching relationship with Volkanovski started with the champion’s interest in improving his ground game, particularly his submissions. “I needed someone who could make me dangerous on the ground,” Volkanovski said. “Craig was the perfect fit. He’s got the technique, the experience, and, let’s be honest, he makes training fun.”

Craig’s influence on Volkanovski was so significant that he was brought in as the BJJ coach for Team Volkanovski on The Return of The Ultimate Fighter. On the show, Craig’s coaching style was on full display. He wasn’t the typical stern coach barking orders—he was the laid-back, approachable guy who also happened to know how to break down your limbs in about five different ways. “Volk kept telling me to be serious,” Craig joked during one episode. “But how can I be serious when half these guys don’t even know what a leg lock is?”

But Craig’s role in Volkanovski’s camp is no joke. He’s a critical part of the team that’s helped Volkanovski remain at the top of the UFC featherweight division. Craig’s approach to coaching UFC fighters isn’t just about teaching them techniques; it’s about building confidence in their ground game so they can be just as comfortable on the mat as they are on their feet. It’s this philosophy that has made Craig one of the go-to coaches for fighters looking to level up their submission skills.

Coaching Philosophy
Craig’s coaching philosophy is refreshingly simple: make training as enjoyable as it is effective. He’s known for his relaxed approach, but that doesn’t mean he’s slacking off. On the contrary, Craig believes that when fighters are having fun, they’re more engaged, more creative, and ultimately better performers. “If you’re not laughing at least once during training, you’re doing it wrong,” he’s been known to say. And he practices what he preaches.

At B Team, Craig has cultivated an environment where his students can experiment with their techniques without the pressure of constantly having to win. Mistakes aren’t seen as failures; they’re seen as opportunities to learn and improve. This mindset has not only made him an effective coach but also a popular one. Students are drawn to his gym not just to train with a world-class grappler but to enjoy the process of learning.

Craig’s coaching isn’t just limited to the physical aspects of BJJ either. He’s a big believer in the mental side of the sport. “You’ve got to be mentally tough, but you also have to be mentally flexible,” Craig often tells his students. He teaches them to adapt on the fly, to stay calm under pressure, and to never stop thinking—even when they’re in the middle of a choke.

This combination of technical prowess, humor, and mental focus is what sets Craig apart as a coach. He’s not just preparing his students to win matches; he’s preparing them to enjoy the journey, which in his mind, is half the battle won.

Major Competitive Highlights

When it comes to Craig Jones’ competitive career, it’s hard to know where to start—there are just so many highlights. From dominating grappling tournaments to facing off against MMA legends, Craig’s resume is packed with memorable moments that have made him a fan favorite.

Polaris Pro Grappling Champion
One of Craig’s standout accomplishments is his success in the Polaris Pro Grappling series. Polaris has become one of the premier platforms for showcasing grappling talent, and Craig has more than made his mark. With three Polaris championships under his belt, Craig has established himself as one of the top competitors in the no-gi grappling scene. His matches in Polaris are a masterclass in control and creativity, often leaving fans wondering how he pulled off such effortless submissions.

Take, for instance, his match against Keenan Cornelius at Polaris 8. Craig’s ability to stay calm under pressure was on full display as he systematically broke down Cornelius’ defenses, eventually locking in a leg lock that forced the tap. “I don’t know what’s scarier,” Craig joked afterward, “the leg lock or Keenan’s mustache.”

Polaris has been the stage where Craig consistently demonstrates why he’s one of the best in the world, and his technical prowess combined with his ability to entertain has made him a standout star of the promotion.

Combat Jiu-Jitsu Superfights
Combat Jiu-Jitsu adds a little extra spice to grappling by allowing open-hand strikes. It’s BJJ with a slap—a concept that sounds weird until you see it in action. And Craig Jones has been right in the middle of this action, taking on UFC veterans in high-profile superfights. One of the most talked-about was his bout against Donald Cerrone at the Combat Jiu-Jitsu Featherweight World Championships in 2021.

Going into the match, there was plenty of hype—after all, Cerrone is a fan favorite in the MMA world. But Craig didn’t just meet expectations; he blew them out of the water. He controlled the match from start to finish, and when he locked in a rear-naked choke, there was no escaping. “Sorry, Cowboy,” Craig quipped after the match, “but this isn’t my first rodeo.”

Craig’s success in Combat Jiu-Jitsu showcases his versatility. Whether it’s pure grappling or mixing it up with strikes, Craig has shown he can adapt his game and come out on top, no matter the rule set.

ADCC and IBJJF Championships
Of course, no discussion of Craig Jones’ competitive highlights would be complete without mentioning his success in the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championships—the pinnacle of no-gi grappling. Craig first made waves at ADCC in 2017 when he submitted 5-time Black Belt World Champion Leandro Lo. That victory alone was enough to cement his status as a top-level grappler, but Craig didn’t stop there.

In both 2019 and 2022, Craig took home silver medals at ADCC, further solidifying his place among the elite. His 2022 performance in the -99 kg division was particularly noteworthy. Craig submitted 3x World Champion Nicholas Meregali in the semifinals before facing off against Kaynan Duarte in the final. Although Craig came up short, losing via points, his performance throughout the tournament left no doubt that he’s one of the best in the world.

Craig’s success isn’t limited to ADCC either. He’s also a former IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, making him one of the most accomplished no-gi competitors of his generation. His ability to consistently perform at the highest levels of competition is a testament to his skill, determination, and creativity on the mats.

Craig Jones vs. Gabi Garcia – The Intergender Superfight

If you think Craig Jones’ career is full of ordinary matches, think again. Craig doesn’t just push the boundaries of grappling; sometimes, he leaps right over them. Enter Craig Jones vs. Gabi Garcia, one of the most controversial and talked-about matches in recent history. Dubbed the first-ever intergender jiu-jitsu match, this bout had everything—drama, controversy, and of course, some classic Craig Jones humor.

Match Background
The lead-up to this fight was a spectacle in itself. Gabi Garcia, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend in her own right, stands at 6’2″ and weighs over 100 kilograms. Craig, known for his cheeky nature, didn’t exactly approach this fight with the usual level of respect that Garcia might have been expecting. In the pre-fight face-off, Craig did something no one saw coming—he kissed Gabi Garcia on the lips. Yes, you read that right. In a moment that had the internet buzzing, Craig grabbed Garcia’s face and planted a kiss on her. She wasn’t amused.

“Man, you’re a b***h, Craig,” Gabi shouted at him after the kiss, clearly fuming. Craig, in typical fashion, simply smirked and walked away, later joking on social media that “Brazilians can’t take a joke.” The buildup to the fight was as much about the tension between the two fighters as it was about the historic nature of the bout itself. This wasn’t just a battle of skills—it was a clash of personalities.

The Fight
When fight night came, all eyes were on Craig and Gabi. The match took place at the Craig Jones Invitational, a tournament Craig himself had organized, which added an extra layer of intrigue to the whole affair. Was Craig biting off more than he could chew? Could he handle the size and strength of someone like Garcia?

As it turned out, he could. The fight started with the usual feeling-out process, but it quickly became clear that Craig’s strategy was to stay out of Gabi’s powerful grip and use his speed and technique to his advantage. True to form, Craig didn’t go for the usual submissions; he went for the dramatic ones. And it paid off. In the second round, Craig managed to secure a rear-naked choke, forcing Gabi to tap out.

The audience reaction was a mix of awe and confusion. Craig Jones had just submitted one of the most feared women in BJJ, and he did it with his usual nonchalance. After the match, Gabi, ever the professional, showed respect to Craig, bowing to him on the mat. Craig, of course, couldn’t resist another joke. “I guess that kiss worked,” he quipped during the post-fight interview, much to the audience’s amusement.

Aftermath and Media Reactions
The aftermath of the fight was just as explosive as the match itself. The internet lit up with debates about gender roles in sports, the appropriateness of Craig’s pre-fight antics, and whether or not intergender matches should even be a thing. But Craig, ever the provocateur, leaned into the controversy. He continued to joke about the fight on social media, posting memes and engaging with fans who were both outraged and entertained.

Some praised Craig for pushing the boundaries and doing something different, while others criticized him for what they saw as disrespectful behavior. Craig, as always, took it all in stride. He’s never been one to shy away from controversy—in fact, he thrives in it. And that’s exactly why people keep watching. Craig Jones isn’t just a grappler; he’s a showman. Whether he’s locking in submissions or locking lips, he knows how to keep the world talking.

The fight with Gabi Garcia was more than just a grappling match; it was a cultural moment that sparked conversations about gender, sportsmanship, and the ever-evolving world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. And if there’s one thing we know about Craig Jones, it’s that this probably won’t be the last time he stirs up some chaos.

Craig Jones’ Role in Popularizing BJJ

Craig Jones isn’t just a practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ); he’s one of the sport’s great revolutionaries. When you hear his name, you immediately think of leg locks, the kind that leave opponents grimacing and fans gasping. Craig didn’t just master these techniques—he made them cool, relatable, and, dare I say, fun to watch. And let’s face it: anyone who can turn something as painful as a heel hook into must-see TV deserves a medal.

Influence on Modern BJJ Techniques
It’s no secret that Craig Jones helped popularize one of the deadliest weapons in modern grappling: the leg lock. Before Craig started breaking ankles (and spirits) left and right, leg locks were often seen as the “cheap tricks” of BJJ. Many traditionalists frowned upon them, considering them a last-resort move for those who couldn’t pass guard or outgrapple an opponent in more conventional ways. But Craig saw something different—he saw untapped potential.

Craig’s rise to fame was fueled in large part by his devastating leg lock game. From ADCC to Polaris, his matches became clinics in leg-based submissions. Opponents who were once dismissive of leg locks suddenly found themselves tapping out faster than they could say “heel hook.” Craig didn’t just win matches—he forced the entire grappling world to rethink their approach to leg attacks.

He took what was once a niche part of the game and turned it into a mainstream technique that no competitor could afford to ignore. “If you’re not training leg locks,” Craig once said during an interview, “you’re not really training BJJ. You’re just rolling around hoping no one grabs your legs.” Craig’s influence was so profound that gyms around the world started incorporating leg locks into their regular curriculum. It’s no exaggeration to say that he changed the game, one twisted knee at a time.

Social Media Presence
Of course, Craig’s influence extends beyond the mat. He’s just as skilled with a phone in his hand as he is with an opponent’s leg, using Instagram and TikTok to connect with fans, share techniques, and—most importantly—crack jokes. Craig isn’t your typical stoic BJJ black belt. He’s the guy who’ll post a meme about his latest match, making fun of himself as much as he’s celebrating his victory. It’s this self-deprecating humor and willingness to engage with fans that has endeared him to the BJJ community.

On Instagram, Craig regularly shares snippets of his life, from training sessions to behind-the-scenes looks at his events. His TikTok is filled with short clips that showcase both his technical skills and his comedic chops. Craig isn’t afraid to poke fun at himself, his opponents, or the absurdities of life as a professional grappler. One post might show him breaking down a complex leg lock, while the next features him joking about the endless stream of people asking him for free seminars.

This blend of technique and humor has made Craig a social media sensation. He’s not just a world-class athlete; he’s a brand. And in today’s world, where personality often drives popularity, Craig’s social media presence has helped elevate him from “just another grappler” to a bona fide star.

Impact on Global BJJ Scene
Craig’s influence isn’t limited to the digital realm. His techniques, mindset, and overall approach to BJJ have impacted practitioners worldwide. Whether it’s the way he popularized leg locks or his more laid-back, humorous approach to the sport, Craig has inspired a new generation of grapplers to embrace both the technical and the fun sides of BJJ.

Gyms around the globe have adopted his techniques, and his matches are studied by practitioners looking to emulate his style. Craig’s impact can be seen in the way grapplers approach their training, with more focus on creativity, innovation, and, yes, leg locks. His influence extends beyond just the competitive scene—he’s changed the way people think about and practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, making it more accessible, relatable, and enjoyable for the masses.

In many ways, Craig Jones has become a bridge between the old school and the new. He’s taken the foundational techniques of BJJ and added his own spin, making the sport more dynamic and exciting than ever before. And with his growing fanbase, Craig isn’t just teaching people how to grapple—he’s showing them how to enjoy the journey.

Media Appearances and Personality

Craig Jones isn’t just a BJJ superstar; he’s a media personality in his own right. From podcasts to social media, he’s found a way to turn his grappling fame into mainstream recognition. What’s the secret? It’s simple: Craig Jones is funny. And in a world where most athletes are about as exciting as a headlock, Craig’s humor and provocative style have set him apart from the pack.

Interviews and Public Image
One of Craig’s most notable media appearances was on the Joe Rogan Experience. Now, for those unfamiliar with the show, appearing on Joe Rogan’s podcast is like getting invited to the cool kids’ table in the world of combat sports. It’s a big deal, and Craig used the platform to showcase not only his technical knowledge but also his personality. Sitting across from Rogan, Craig discussed everything from leg locks to the ins and outs of B Team Jiu-Jitsu. But it wasn’t just his insights that caught listeners’ attention—it was the way he delivered them, with a blend of humor, self-awareness, and occasional irreverence.

“People think I’m serious when I post all those memes,” Craig said with a grin during the interview. “But really, I’m just trying to make people laugh—and maybe scare a few of my future opponents in the process.” The episode was a hit, and it helped introduce Craig to an even wider audience. Suddenly, people who had never watched a BJJ match in their lives were Googling his name, following his Instagram, and binge-watching his Polaris highlights.

Craig’s public image is a mix of laid-back Aussie charm and killer instinct. He’s the guy who can be laughing with you one minute and choking you out the next. It’s this duality that has made him a fan favorite—not just in the BJJ community, but in the broader world of combat sports.

Humor and Provocative Style
Craig Jones is provocative, but not in the way you might expect. He doesn’t go around picking fights or trash-talking for the sake of drama (well, not all the time). Instead, he uses humor as his weapon of choice. Whether it’s a cheeky remark during a post-fight interview or a well-timed meme on Instagram, Craig knows how to keep people entertained.

His humor is part of his brand, and it’s something that sets him apart from the more serious, intense competitors in the BJJ world. Craig understands that in addition to being a great grappler, you’ve got to be memorable—and he does that by making people laugh. “If I can make you laugh, you’ll remember me,” Craig once said during an interview. “And if you remember me, you’ll be thinking about me when you’re on the mat. That’s when I’ve already won.”

Craig’s humor isn’t just about making jokes, though. It’s also about being real. He doesn’t put on a front or try to be something he’s not. What you see is what you get, and that authenticity has resonated with fans. He’s not afraid to poke fun at himself, his opponents, or even the sport itself. And in a world where many athletes take themselves a bit too seriously, Craig’s willingness to lighten the mood is a breath of fresh air.

Personality of the Year Award
In 2023, Craig’s personality was officially recognized when he won Personality of the Year at the JitsMagazine BJJ Awards. It was a fitting accolade for a guy who had spent the year not only winning matches but also winning over the hearts of fans with his wit and charm. For Craig, the award wasn’t just about his ability to crack jokes; it was about connecting with people. “Winning Personality of the Year means more to me than any medal,” he said in his acceptance speech. “Because at the end of the day, BJJ is about more than just submissions—it’s about building a community. And if I can make that community laugh while I’m at it, even better.”

This award solidified Craig’s status as not just a top-tier athlete but also a beloved figure in the sport. It recognized the impact he’s had on the BJJ community, not just through his techniques but through his ability to bring people together with humor and positivity.

Craig Jones’ Training Philosophy

When you look at someone like Craig Jones, it’s easy to assume that he’s just a natural-born talent—a grappling savant who makes everything look easy. But behind every slick submission and every Instagram-worthy move is a meticulous training regimen that blends hard work, strategy, and a bit of Aussie pragmatism.

Training Regimen
Craig’s training regimen isn’t just about spending hours on the mat (though there’s plenty of that). It’s about making every session count. Craig is a big believer in quality over quantity. “You don’t need to train for eight hours a day to be successful,” he once said. “You just need to train smart.”

Craig’s daily routine is a mix of technical drills, sparring, and conditioning. But unlike some athletes who swear by grinding until they drop, Craig emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery. “You can’t train if you’re injured, and you can’t improve if you’re exhausted,” he explained in an interview. “So I’m all about working hard but also knowing when to take a step back.”

A typical day for Craig includes several hours of training at B Team Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on specific techniques that he’s looking to sharpen. Whether it’s drilling leg locks, practicing guard passes, or working on his wrestling, Craig’s approach is methodical. He’s constantly refining his game, always looking for ways to improve.

But training isn’t just about physical conditioning for Craig—it’s also about mental preparation. He regularly incorporates visualization and mental rehearsals into his routine, running through scenarios in his mind so that when the moment comes in competition, he’s already prepared. “Your body can only do what your mind allows it to do,” Craig said. “So if you’re not training your brain, you’re leaving half your potential untapped.”

Mental Toughness and Strategy
Craig’s success isn’t just about technique—it’s about mental toughness. In high-stakes matches, where the pressure is on and the lights are bright, Craig has a unique ability to stay calm, collected, and focused. It’s this mental fortitude that has allowed him to excel at the highest levels of competition.

When asked how he approaches mental preparation, Craig explained that it’s all about embracing discomfort. “The best way to build mental toughness is to put yourself in uncomfortable situations,” he said. “Whether it’s drilling positions where you’re stuck or pushing yourself through tough rounds, you have to get comfortable being uncomfortable. That’s where the growth happens.”

Craig also approaches every match with a strategic mindset. He’s not just going out there to roll the dice—he’s thinking several moves ahead. “BJJ is like chess,” Craig explained. “You have to anticipate what your opponent is going to do and be ready to counter it. It’s not just about reacting; it’s about controlling the game.”

Craig’s strategy often involves luring his opponents into a false sense of security, making them think they’ve got him where they want him, only to turn the tables with a well-timed submission. It’s a method that’s as psychological as it is physical, and it’s one of the reasons Craig has been so successful at the highest levels of competition.

Craig Jones’ Net Worth and Business Ventures

Craig Jones is more than just an athlete—he’s a businessman, an entrepreneur, and a savvy marketer who has turned his grappling success into financial success. With multiple revenue streams, Craig has built a net worth that reflects not only his talent on the mat but also his ability to capitalize on his brand.

Earnings from Competitions
Craig’s earnings from competitions alone would be enough to make most people envious. From ADCC to Polaris to Combat Jiu-Jitsu, Craig has racked up prize money at some of the biggest events in the world. But it’s not just the size of the checks—it’s the consistency with which he’s been able to cash them. Craig’s ability to consistently place at the top of the podium has made him one of the highest-earning grapplers in the sport.

That said, Craig’s income from competitions is just one piece of the puzzle. While he’s undoubtedly made a significant amount from prize money, it’s his business ventures outside of competition that have really boosted his net worth.

Business Endeavors
Craig has been smart about leveraging his fame to create multiple streams of income. One of his most successful ventures has been his line of merchandise, which includes everything from rash guards to t-shirts featuring his signature humor. Craig’s merchandise has become a hit with fans, who appreciate not only the quality but also the humor and personality behind the designs. Whether it’s a shirt with a cheeky quote or a rash guard featuring one of his favorite memes, Craig’s merch line is as much about having fun as it is about representing his brand.

In addition to merchandise, Craig has also been heavily involved in online courses. Through platforms like BJJ Fanatics, Craig offers instructional videos where he breaks down his techniques in detail. These courses have become incredibly popular, with thousands of grapplers around the world looking to learn from one of the best in the business. Craig’s ability to teach is as strong as his ability to compete, and his instructional videos have become a significant source of income.

Beyond merchandise and online courses, Craig has also ventured into sponsorship deals. Brands are eager to work with Craig because of his broad appeal—not just to hardcore BJJ fans but to a wider audience. Craig has a knack for making grappling relatable, and that makes him an attractive partner for companies looking to tap into the combat sports market.

Craig Jones Invitational
Perhaps the biggest and boldest of Craig’s business ventures is the Craig Jones Invitational, a $3,000,000 tournament initiative that he launched in 2024. This tournament isn’t just about money (though the $1,000,000 grand prize for each division certainly doesn’t hurt); it’s about creating a new platform for grapplers to showcase their skills in a way that’s exciting, innovative, and fan-friendly.

The Craig Jones Invitational has already made waves in the BJJ community for its high stakes, unique format, and the star power it attracts. By putting his own spin on the traditional tournament format, Craig has created something that’s not just a competition but an event—one that’s designed to entertain as much as it is to challenge the athletes.

This tournament is a testament to Craig’s vision for the future of BJJ. He’s not just thinking about what works now—he’s thinking about what will take the sport to the next level. And with his business acumen, humor, and talent all working in his favor, there’s no doubt that the Craig Jones Invitational will continue to grow and solidify his legacy in both the competitive and business worlds of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Craig Jones’ Social Media and Fan Interaction

If there’s one thing Craig Jones does just as well as choke people out, it’s making them laugh. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) skills might have earned him worldwide fame, but it’s his social media presence that has made him a beloved personality. Craig has mastered the art of balancing top-tier athleticism with top-tier humor, using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to connect with fans in ways that most athletes only dream of. He’s not just a competitor; he’s a content creator, a meme machine, and a fan engagement guru all rolled into one.

Instagram and TikTok: The Craig Jones Comedy Show

When you scroll through Craig Jones’ Instagram feed, you won’t just see highlight reels of devastating submissions and hard-earned victories—although there’s plenty of that. You’ll also find a steady stream of memes, inside jokes, and humorous commentary that show a side of Craig you might not expect if you only knew him from the competition circuit. Craig knows how to use social media as more than just a promotional tool; he uses it as a way to genuinely connect with his audience.

On Instagram, Craig shares a mix of training clips, snapshots from his daily life, and, of course, the memes. He pokes fun at everything, from his own matches to the quirks of BJJ culture. One minute he’s posting a clip of a flawless leg lock, and the next, he’s roasting himself with a self-deprecating caption like, “At least I didn’t get leg locked by a white belt this time.”

But it’s not just Instagram where Craig shines—his TikTok account is another goldmine of content. Whether it’s short, snappy videos of training mishaps, playful banter with teammates, or instructional clips with a comedic twist, Craig has figured out how to make grappling go viral. His TikToks manage to be both informative and hilarious, blending technique breakdowns with the kind of humor that makes even non-BJJ practitioners hit that follow button.

Craig’s not afraid to be irreverent, and that’s what makes his social media accounts so refreshing. He doesn’t stick to the typical stoic athlete persona; he’s just as likely to post about his failures as his successes, and that authenticity has won him a massive following.

Building a Fan Base: Humorous Posts, Live Streams, and Instructional Videos

Craig’s interaction with fans isn’t just about posting funny content; it’s about engaging with his audience in a way that feels personal and genuine. He’s not the kind of guy who just posts and logs off. Craig frequently responds to comments, joins in on the jokes his fans make, and even trolls back when the opportunity arises. He’s created an atmosphere where fans feel like they’re part of an ongoing conversation, not just passive observers.

One of the ways Craig stays connected with his fanbase is through live streams. Whether he’s breaking down techniques in real-time, chatting about the latest BJJ events, or just goofing around with his B Team teammates, Craig’s live streams give fans an inside look at his life both on and off the mat. He doesn’t take himself too seriously, and that makes his live streams feel more like hanging out with a friend than watching a celebrity.

Craig also uses instructional videos as a way to build his fanbase, but of course, he puts his own spin on them. Sure, you’ll get expert tips on how to execute that perfect heel hook, but you’ll also get a side of humor that makes learning BJJ techniques feel less intimidating. His instructional videos aren’t just educational—they’re entertaining. And in a sport where learning can sometimes feel like a grind, Craig’s approach is a breath of fresh air.

Growing Influence: Viral Content and Meme Culture in BJJ

Craig Jones isn’t just a part of BJJ culture—he’s helping to shape it. His influence extends beyond the gym and into the world of viral content and meme culture. By blending high-level grappling with humor and relatability, Craig has managed to reach a wider audience than most athletes in the sport. He’s become a meme king in the BJJ world, and his content regularly gets shared across social media, introducing new fans to the sport in the process.

Craig’s understanding of meme culture is one of the key reasons his influence continues to grow. He’s not just sharing jokes—he’s creating content that taps into the shared experiences of BJJ practitioners, from the struggles of cutting weight to the universal fear of getting caught in a leg lock. His posts resonate because they’re real, and they speak to the everyday challenges and joys of the grappling life.

By staying at the forefront of viral trends and knowing exactly when to inject humor into the conversation, Craig has managed to expand his reach far beyond the confines of the BJJ community. His influence now stretches into mainstream combat sports culture, where fans appreciate not just his skills but also his ability to make them laugh and feel like they’re part of the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Craig Jones

If you’ve ever Googled “Craig Jones,” you’ve probably come across some burning questions that fans—and even casual observers—frequently ask. Craig’s rise to fame has sparked curiosity across the BJJ world and beyond, so let’s dive into some of the most commonly asked questions about the man himself.

Who Taught Craig Jones BJJ?

Craig Jones didn’t just stumble into BJJ greatness on his own—he had some top-tier mentors along the way. Craig’s first introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu came in 2006 at his cousin’s academy, but it wasn’t until he moved to Melbourne and began training under Lachlan Giles that things really took off. Lachlan, an accomplished grappler in his own right, was instrumental in shaping Craig’s game, particularly his infamous leg lock strategies. Under Lachlan’s guidance at Absolute MMA, Craig honed his skills, eventually earning his black belt in 2016. Craig often credits Lachlan not just for teaching him the technical aspects of BJJ but for helping him develop the strategic mindset that has become his trademark.

Is Craig Jones a World Champion?

Craig Jones is a world champion—but with a twist. While he hasn’t yet clinched a gold medal at the ADCC World Championships (considered the Olympics of submission grappling), he has come incredibly close, earning silver in both the 2019 and 2022 ADCC tournaments. He’s also won gold in the IBJJF World No-Gi Championships at the purple belt level, making him the first Australian male to win an IBJJF world title. So while some might argue that Craig still has one more step to climb in becoming a world champion at the black belt level, his resume is already packed with high-profile wins that solidify his status as one of the top grapplers in the world.

How Long Did It Take for Craig Jones to Get His Black Belt?

In the world of BJJ, earning a black belt is no small feat—it often takes a decade or more of consistent training, competition, and dedication. For Craig Jones, it took around 10 years to earn his black belt, a journey that began in 2006 and culminated in 2016 when he was promoted by Lachlan Giles. Craig’s rise through the ranks wasn’t without its challenges, but his dedication to mastering the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was clear from the beginning. And given how quickly he became a force to be reckoned with on the international stage, it’s safe to say that Craig put every one of those years to good use.

What Is Craig Jones’ Net Worth?

While exact figures are hard to pin down, it’s estimated that Craig Jones’ net worth is somewhere in the mid-six figures range, thanks to a combination of competition earnings, sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and instructional videos. Craig has successfully leveraged his fame in the BJJ world to create multiple streams of income, from selling rash guards emblazoned with his trademark humor to offering courses on platforms like BJJ Fanatics. Add to that his involvement in high-profile tournaments like the Craig Jones Invitational, and it’s clear that Craig isn’t just rolling in victories—he’s rolling in financial success, too.

Who Replaced Craig Jones in BJJ?

This question is often asked with a bit of confusion, given that Craig Jones isn’t exactly replaceable. However, it likely stems from the breakup of the Danaher Death Squad in 2021, when Craig and several other high-profile members went their separate ways. Craig didn’t need replacing, though—he went on to form B Team Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, Texas, alongside grapplers like Nicky Ryan and Nicky Rod, continuing to dominate the BJJ scene in his own way. The split didn’t leave a void so much as it created new opportunities for Craig to lead and innovate.

What Is Craig Jones’ Next Match?

Craig Jones is never far from his next big match, whether it’s a high-profile superfight or a major tournament like ADCC. As of 2024, Craig has been heavily involved in organizing and competing in the Craig Jones Invitational, a massive event featuring top-tier grapplers and significant prize money. But beyond his own event, Craig continues to be a fixture on the international BJJ scene, with superfights and competitions always on the horizon. For fans eager to see him in action, his Instagram and TikTok accounts are the best places to stay updated on his next move—both on and off the mats.