GABI GARCIA AND THE INTERGENDER CJI TOURNAMENT

The first-ever Craig Jones Invitational is becoming the most talked-about jiu-jitsu tournament in the BJJ world. Not just with the insane inter-gender match between Craig Jones (invitational host) and one of the most decorated and skilled female grapplers, Gabriella Garcia, but with its unprecedented athlete payouts. This isn’t just about spectacle—it’s also about equity. With athletes earning over $10k just to compete and $1 million for the winners, it’s setting a new precedent in pay, particularly for female fighters. This level of recognition, paired with the clash of jiu-jitsu icons from both genders, is pushing the sport forward in ways never seen.

Can you imagine the thrill of your daughter, niece, or sister competing in the sport they love, training relentlessly, and being rewarded with the opportunity to earn upwards of $1 million? This is a groundbreaking moment for female athletes

The same weekend this monumental event is to occur, a similar event (in that its a competition for grapplers) will be taking place not to far. The ADCC tournament the oh so prestigious event with grapplers such as the likes of Gordan Ryan and Helena Cevar, disappoints in that winners in the men's division earn a mere $10,000 and the women's prize is even more dismal at $6,000. I must emphasize this is only for the winners. Such disparities in prize amount made it easy for star Ffion Davies to compete in CJI instead of ADCC, legitimizing the invitational as a pro women event.

Gabi Garcia, an absolute force in jiu-jitsu, is no stranger to making headlines, but this time she’s taking it to another level. She’s stepping up for the first-ever inter-gender match at the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) against none other than Craig Jones himself. Garcia is fired up, seeing this match as not just a competition but a total game-changer for the sport. And she’s not holding back—she’s ready to prove, once again, why she’s one of the most decorated grapplers out there. Despite her long-time friendship with Jones, she’s made it clear: “I’m going there to beat you and shock the world.” Beyond the excitement, Garcia’s decision to compete in CJI over ADCC speaks volumes. It’s about more than personal glory—it’s about standing up for equal pay and opportunities for women in jiu-jitsu.