Mica Galvao has been officially announced as the wildcard competitor for New Wave Jiu-Jitsu – in the under 77kg division, at the upcoming Craig Jones Invitational 2.
This final roster decision fills a lingering gap in the team’s otherwise established lineup and adds one of the sport’s top athletes to an already stacked event.
New Wave was one of the first teams to reveal its core competitors, but selecting an athlete for the 77kg slot proved more complicated.
Initially, coach John Danaher was weighing options from within the squad, considering names like Oliver Taza and Jason Nolf.
However, he had kept the wildcard option open, and when Galvao expressed interest in joining the team, it created the perfect opportunity.
Galvao enters CJI 2 as the reigning ADCC 2024 under 77kg champion and has long been regarded as one of the best grapplers in the world.
His track record against heavier opponents also makes him a valuable addition to the quintet-style format, where adaptability and endurance are key.
Beyond his credentials, Galvao’s addition brings potential for exciting rematches that could be major draws for fans.
One such rematch is with Dante Leon, who submitted Galvao in the absolute division at ADCC 2024.
Both will compete in the same weight class at CJI 2, which leaves the door open for a possible run-back.
Another anticipated clash is with Kade Ruotolo, who handed Galvao a submission loss in the ADCC 2022 final.
While Ruotolo hasn’t been confirmed for CJI 2, ATOS still has several open spots to fill – one of which is in his usual 77kg division.
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