In a recent episode of the Lex Fridman Podcast, renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu  competitor and coach Craig Jones opened up about his long-standing rivalry with Nicholas Meregali.

A History That Dates Back to the Gi

Craig Jones began by recounting his early encounters with Meregali, which date back to his days of competing in the gi. “My history with Nicholas Meregali actually dates back to a time where probably he does not even remember—back when I used to wear a kimono,” Jones recalled. He shared that their first significant clash occurred at the Abu Dhabi World Pro, where he was chasing his gi dreams. In that event, Jones faced Meregali in the absolute division after losing in his weight class to Tommy Langaker.

Meregali, known for his dominant gi game, overwhelmed Jones during their match. However, Jones humorously highlighted one of his rare successes in that bout, saying, “He passed my guard, and I somehow reversed him from side control. That’s the only part of the match I share.” Despite the reversal, Meregali eventually swept Jones and submitted him, but the moment of reversing Meregali was one that Jones still takes pride in.

The Transition to No-Gi and a New Rivalry

Years later, the rivalry took on a new dimension when Jones transitioned fully to no-gi grappling, leaving behind his gi competition days. Around the same time, Meregali joined the same team that Jones had left, effectively replacing him. Jones pointed out the irony, saying, “They’ve brought in a more credentialed, handsome—doesn’t speak as well—but they’ve brought him in, he’s my replacement.”

The two faced off again at the ADCC, where Jones moved up to a heavier division, believing it to be an easier bracket. However, the rivalry between Jones and Meregali has continued to simmer, particularly given their contrasting styles and personalities.

A Rivalry Beyond the Mat

The conversation on the podcast revealed that the tension between Jones and Meregali extends beyond just competition. Jones noted that while Meregali may have the credentials and the physical appearance, he believes their rivalry is also about more than just grappling prowess. “It’s more than just on the mat,” Jones hinted, suggesting that their differences in approach to the sport and their respective personalities play a significant role in their ongoing beef.

Looking Ahead

As the rivalry between Craig Jones and Nicholas Meregali continues to evolve, fans of the sport are keenly watching for their next encounter. Whether in competition or through their ongoing banter, the tension between these two grappling titans adds an intriguing layer to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In the meantime, Jones’s reflection on their history serves as a reminder of how personal rivalries can drive the evolution of the sport. As Jones himself acknowledged, their shared history and ongoing competition keep pushing them to new heights, both on and off the mat.