Mackenzie Dern recently shared her thoughts on the highly anticipated CJI match between Craig Jones and Gabi Garcia.
As one of the few women to have defeated Garcia, Dern’s perspective is particularly insightful.
And, well, one of the first points Dern highlighted was the size difference between Garcia and Jones:
You know, I actually haven’t seen the comparison size-wise, them next to each other.
I remember Gabi is really, really big but Craig Jones…
I’m not remembering his size compared to her.But I really think that if he doesn’t take care she can just like hug his head and put her weight on him and it will be really hard for him.
Dern acknowledges that Garcia’s size could be a significant advantage.
Larger competitors often dominate smaller ones positionally, which could be the case here.
However, Dern also pointed out another factor that favors Jones:
Of course he’s a guy, so I’m interested to see how that will be.
I think obviously too if she messes up some position he can catch her back or submit her but yeah, for sure I think it’s not like an easy fight for him at all.
Reflecting on Garcia’s challenge, Dern added:
Gabi is really forward.
She’s out there, she’s courageous and stuff like that.We train and we spar with people, we spar with the guys in training but it’s totally different when it’s like in the fight in competition.
View this post on Instagram
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.
