The inaugural Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) kicked off in spectacular fashion on Friday night at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling Day 2. With two $1 million prizes on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the grapplers did not disappoint, delivering a night filled with electrifying finishes and unexpected upsets.
Over 80kg Division: Nicky Rod Dominates, Kanard Shocks the World
The Over 80kg division opened the night with some of the most anticipated matchups. Nicky Rodriguez, known for his relentless pressure and powerful wrestling, quickly established himself as the man to beat. Rodriguez secured back-to-back rear-naked choke victories, first against Max Gimenis in Round 2, and then against Owen Livesey in the quarterfinals. His aggressive style and unyielding pace make him a favorite as he heads into the semifinals.
One of the biggest surprises of the night came from Lucas Kanard, who delivered a shocking 70-second heel hook submission over four-time IBJJF world champion Victor Hugo. Kanard’s stunning upset sent shockwaves through the grappling community, but his momentum was halted in the quarterfinals by Inacio Santos. Santos, who had earlier won a hard-fought split decision over Pedro Alex, used his top pressure to neutralize Kanard’s attacks and secured a unanimous decision to advance.
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Fellipe Andrew also had a strong showing, first defeating three-time NCAA All-American Daniel Kerkvliet by unanimous decision. He followed that up with a grueling battle against Brazilian heavyweight Joao Gabriel Rocha. Despite Rocha’s formidable defense, Andrew’s aggressive guard work and relentless bottom attacks earned him another unanimous decision victory, setting up a semifinal clash with Inacio Santos.
Under 80kg Division: Jones-Leary Shines, Ruotolo Twins Split Results
In the Under 80kg division, Tye Ruotolo made a statement with an impressive kneebar finish over decorated wrestler Jason Nolf in the first round. However, his journey was cut short in the quarterfinals by Levi Jones-Leary. Jones-Leary, who had already shown his submission prowess with a quick inside heel hook against Roberto Jimenez, managed to stymie Ruotolo’s typically aggressive game. By controlling the pace and consistently attacking Ruotolo’s heel, Jones-Leary earned a unanimous decision victory, advancing to a semifinal showdown with Lucas Barbosa.
Barbosa, a seasoned competitor, demonstrated his experience and skill throughout the night. After a decisive victory over Kenta Iwamoto in the first round, Barbosa secured a submission win in the quarterfinals with a knee crush against Jozef Chen. His semifinal match against Jones-Leary promises to be a technical masterclass.
Meanwhile, Kade Ruotolo, Tye’s twin brother, fared better in his bracket. Kade displayed his signature dynamic style, securing a first-round submission via straight ankle lock against Matheus Diniz. In the quarterfinals, Kade faced off against Tommy Langaker, earning a unanimous decision after a dominant performance. Kade now moves on to the semifinals, where he will face the relentless Andrew Tackett.
Tackett had one of the standout performances of the night, first defeating Nicky Ryan with a dominant unanimous decision, and then following it up with another commanding decision victory over Eoghan O’Flanagan. Tackett’s well-rounded game and relentless pace have made him a dark horse in this tournament, and his semifinal match against Kade Ruotolo is sure to be a highlight of Day 2.
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Looking Ahead: Semifinal Showdowns
As we head into the semifinals on Saturday, the tension is palpable. In the Over 80kg division, Nicky Rodriguez will take on Adam Bradley, who secured his spot in the semifinals with back-to-back split decisions over Kyle Boehm and Pat Downey. On the other side of the bracket, Inacio Santos will face Fellipe Andrew in what promises to be a clash of styles.
In the Under 80kg division, Levi Jones-Leary will battle Lucas Barbosa, while Kade Ruotolo takes on Andrew Tackett. Each matchup is packed with intrigue, as the remaining competitors vie for a spot in the finals and a shot at the $1 million prize.
The inaugural Craig Jones Invitational has already delivered unforgettable moments, and with the semifinals on the horizon, the best is yet to come. Make sure to tune in for what promises to be an explosive Day 2 at the CJI.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
