A recent episode of the Combat Base podcast has sparked discussion within the BJJ community – after co-host Melissa Haueter, a decorated female black belt, voiced concerns about Gabi Garcia’s participation in the Craig Jones Invitational.
During the podcast featuring Matt Thornton, founder of the SBG affiliation, Haueter shared her perspective on the match:
I know you guys all thought it was highly entertaining…
But I felt it was degrading toward Gabi.I felt like it was highly degrading toward her and as a female black belt.
I don’t like that representation.
Thornton echoed Haueter’s sentiments:
I’m watching spectacle, I’m not watching the martial art the way I like the art.
Interestingly, Garcia herself seemed to have a different perspective.
After the match with Craig Jones, which ended with 21 seconds left in the second round (crowning Jones as the first-ever jiu-jitsu intergender champion), Garcia addressed the crowd with emotion:
I’m crying because I see all this… (The audience supporting her).
I never fight for medals. I fought for a bigger sport.
It can be bigger than ever.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
