A major lineup change may be on the horizon for the upcoming CJI 2 team-based, Quintet-style grappling competition.
On Tuesday, ADCC veteran “Big” Dan Manasoiu revealed that he has contracted Lyme disease and will be unable to compete in the +99kg division for Team New Wave.
Manasoiu announced his withdrawal on Instagram, citing his illness as the reason:
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Shortly afterward, tournament organizer Craig Jones posted a video suggesting he might step in to replace Manasoiu on Team New Wave.
The possibility carries extra intrigue, due to Jones’ history with the squad — he previously trained under Team New Wave head coach John Danaher as part of the legendary Danaher Death Squad before their split in 2021.
That split saw Jones create the B-Team while Danaher and Gordon Ryan launched Team New Wave, fueling a tense rivalry between the two Austin-based teams over the following years.
With Team New Wave now moving to Kingsway Jiu-Jitsu and the B-Team dissolving in light of Jones’ planned retirement, a reunion between Jones and Danaher suddenly seems plausible.
His appearance on the team would mark a significant reconciliation after years of separation.
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