The anticipation is reaching fever pitch as Craig Jones prepares to face Olympic wrestling champion Gable Steveson at CJI 2, and The B-Team’s latest countdown video featuring the legendary Renato Laranja has fans buzzing with excitement.
In what promises to be one of the most intriguing matchups in submission grappling history, the Australian submission specialist will take on the 265-pound wrestling powerhouse in a clash that perfectly embodies the classic David vs Goliath narrative that makes combat sports so compelling.
The Breakdown
Craig Jones, known for his technical brilliance and ability to submit much larger opponents, faces perhaps his biggest physical challenge yet in Steveson. The Olympic gold medalist brings not just elite wrestling credentials but also a significant size and strength advantage that could prove decisive in the grappling exchanges.
What makes this matchup particularly fascinating is the contrast in styles. Jones has built his reputation on being the great equalizer – the smaller, more technical fighter who can neutralize size advantages through superior positioning and submission threats. Steveson, meanwhile, represents pure athletic dominance, with the kind of wrestling pedigree that has historically translated well to submission grappling.
The B-Team Factor
The involvement of Renato Laranja in the countdown adds the perfect touch of entertainment value that CJI has become known for. The B-Team’s ability to blend serious competition with genuine entertainment has been a key factor in building the buzz around their events.
With Craig Jones at the helm of CJI, this isn’t just about putting on great matches – it’s about creating moments that capture the imagination of both hardcore grapplers and casual fans. The Steveson matchup delivers on both fronts.
What’s at Stake
For Jones, this represents a chance to prove that technique truly can overcome size and athleticism at the highest level. A victory over an Olympic champion would cement his status as one of the most skilled submission grapplers in the world.
For Steveson, it’s an opportunity to make a statement in his submission grappling debut. Success here could open doors to bigger opportunities in the grappling world and prove that his wrestling dominance translates across combat sports disciplines.
The Verdict
This matchup embodies everything that makes modern submission grappling exciting. It’s technique versus power, experience versus athleticism, and David versus Goliath all rolled into one compelling package.
With CJI 2 approaching, this countdown video serves as the perfect appetizer for what promises to be one of the most talked-about matches of the year. Whether you’re team technique or team power, this is appointment viewing for any serious grappling fan.
