Craig Jones Invitational 2: Live Updates and Results from Las Vegas
The much-anticipated Craig Jones Invitational 2 (CJI 2) is underway at the Thomas & Mack Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, where 44 of the world’s top grapplers have gathered for an exciting two-day event. With a staggering cash prize of $1 million at stake split among the winning team, the atmosphere is electrifying. Hosted on August 30 and 31, this tournament is showcasing elite jiu-jitsu talent, and fans are eager for thrilling matchups and unexpected outcomes.
Live Streaming and Format
For those who want to catch the action live, the event is streaming on FloGrappling as well as its YouTube channel. The unique format of CJI 2 features an eight-team bracket in a quintet style, which allows for dynamic matchups and showcases the skills and strategies of grappling teams. In addition, a special highlight includes a four-woman bracket with a cash prize of $100,000 for the victor.
Schedule Highlights
Day 2 Schedule (August 31):
- Pre-Show: 8:30 pm ET / 5:30 pm PDT
- Matches begin: 9:00 pm ET
The match order features:
- Team New Wave vs. Team Atos
- Team Australia vs. B Team
- $100K Female Bracket Final
- Craig Jones vs. Chael Sonnen
- $1 Million Final (New Wave vs. B Team)
Real-Time Results: Day 2
As the event progresses, here are the notable results from the second day:
Craig Jones def. Chael Sonnen via buggy choke (twice).
- In an unexpected turn of events, Jones defeated Sonnen quickly in a striking fashion after an elaborate walkout performance. After a swift takedown, Jones executed a buggy choke leading to an immediate submission. The crowd, sensing the abrupt end, rallied for a rematch which concluded in a similar fashion.
Helena Crevar def. Sarah Galvão via Aoki lock in the third round, securing her win and the $100,000 prize.
- The match saw an intense back-and-forth, with Crevar ultimately overcoming Galvão’s pressure and defense through strategic leg attacks and submission threats.
New Wave def. Atos via last man standing, demonstrating tactical prowess and stamina.
B Team def. Team Australia also via last man standing, showcasing a strong team effort throughout the elimination matches.
Vagner Rocha vs. Kaynan Duarte: Ended in a double elimination draw, reflecting the high-caliber grappling on both sides as each fighter battled fiercely for control.
- Other matches featured notable submissions from various competitors, showcasing both aggression and defensive skills that contribute to the excitement of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Noteworthy performances included submissions by Victor Hugo, showcasing his grappling IQ and technique under pressure.
Review of Day 1
The first day of CJI 2 was just as exhilarating, with high-stakes matches reducing the competitor field down to four teams: New Wave, Team Australia, Atos, and B Team. The day was characterized by judges’ decisions rather than submissions in many instances, which prompted Craig Jones to announce a substantial $50,000 bonus for any submission during the tournament to encourage more aggressive grappling.
The four-woman bracket featured fierce competitors, with Helena Crevar defeating Adele Fornarino and Sarah Galvão overcoming Ana Carolina Vieira, setting up a gripping finale for the cash prize.
What’s Next?
As the competition heats up, anticipation builds around the finals. The closing matches, particularly the showdown between Craig Jones and Chael Sonnen, have sparked conversations across social media, with fans eagerly debating strategy and potential outcomes. The finals between New Wave and B Team are particularly intriguing, given their impressive performances thus far.
Conclusion
The Craig Jones Invitational 2 is not just a showcase of top-tier grappling talent; it represents a celebration of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. As this weekend unfolds, grappling enthusiasts can look forward to continuing updates and analysis of matches that reflect the ongoing evolution of the sport itself. Stay tuned for more live coverage and updates as this thrilling event progresses!
