Craig Jones has found himself at the center of controversy (again) after posting training photos alongside tech billionaire Mark Zuckerberg. Craig Jones and Zuckerberg caught everyone’s attention, with the official CJI financial benefactor still a matter of speculation.
The Australian grappling sensation, renowned for his skill on the mats as well as his outspoken personality, has inadvertently sparked intense debate within the global BJJ community.
Craig Jones, the most popular troll in BJJ, but also one of the most skillful grapplers and the man behind the highest-paying pro grappling event in history, recently shared images of himself training with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg on his Instagram account.
Zuckerberg, who made headlines for receiving his BJJ blue belt and was touted as contemplating a super fight with Elon Musk after winning a BJJ tournament recently, has increasingly become associated with the martial arts, drawing both curiosity and skepticism from longtime practitioners.
The photos quickly went viral, drawing attention from both fans and critics. While some viewed the training session as a positive step toward mainstream exposure for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, others were far less welcoming, accusing Jones of aligning himself with Zuckerberg for potential personal gain or increased exposure.
Craig Jones and Zuckerberg Training Session Surrounded by Buzz
Reactions to Jones’ association with Zuckerberg have been notably divided. On platforms like Instagram and Twitter, many BJJ enthusiasts and fans voiced their disapproval vehemently.
Critical comments filled social media threads, with detractors labeling the partnership as “pathetic” and accusing Jones of seeking publicity. Critics questioned the authenticity of Zuckerberg’s commitment to BJJ, speculating that his interest might be more about personal branding than genuine passion for martial arts.
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“Thanks @zuck for always having my back”
– Craig Jones on training with Zuck
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A particularly controversial viewpoint circulating among skeptics suggests that Jones may be pursuing personal or financial benefits by associating closely with Zuckerberg. Several comments sarcastically hinted that Jones might be looking for funding opportunities for his own projects or ventures within the grappling industry:
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– “Pathetic how BJJ stars bend the knee for a quick buck” –
– “CJI 3, 4, 5, 6 confirmed” –
– “First craig L” –
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Jones, however, has yet to directly address these criticisms publicly. Known for his humorous yet provocative presence in the grappling community, the Australian competitor seems unbothered, continuing to focus on his training and professional development.
Zuckerberg’s Genuine Interest in BJJ?
Mark Zuckerberg’s journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began earnestly, marked by his promotion to blue belt and his recent impressive competitive performance.
Despite his consistent public displays of dedication—participating in competitions and regularly attending training sessions—his involvement continues to be met with some scrutiny from the broader martial arts community.
His recent training session with Craig Jones only amplifies the discussion surrounding his intentions and dedication.
Craig Jones: A Polarizing Figure
Craig Jones is no stranger to controversy within the grappling world. The Australian grappler, famous for his submission-oriented style and charismatic, sometimes brash demeanor, has always managed to attract attention both on and off the mats.
With all eyes don’t he second CJI edition, which is again promising millions of dollars in prize money, this time to be divided between a team of winners that also includes a selection of New Wave Jiu-Jitsu athletes, Craig has been milking the spotlight as much as possible lately.
Whether Craig Jones and Zuckerberg only shared a training session or had a ‘business meeting’ on the mats, Craig made sure everyone was aware. The biggest troll in BJJ is definitely enjoying his time in the spotlight, but as long as he’s making it worth it for pro grapplers, do we really care what his true intentions are?
Has Zuck Got Craig’s Back In More Ways Than One?
The encounter between Craig Jones and Mark Zuckerberg signifies a potential turning point for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s visibility and integration into mainstream culture. Whether driven by genuine interest, strategic networking, or simple curiosity, the involvement of prominent individuals such as Zuckerberg undoubtedly elevates the sport’s profile.
As Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to grow in popularity, grappling fans and athletes alike will inevitably face more such moments of controversy and discussion. While reactions may be divided, this latest episode illustrates vividly how rapidly the sport’s landscape is evolving, fueled by intersections between traditional martial arts communities and broader societal trends.
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