During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, BJJ star Craig Jones revealed one of his most intriguing matchup ideas yet. He wants a face-off between former UFC flyweight champion Demetrius Johnson and Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Gabi Garcia in the gi.
The unconventional matchup proposal came up while discussing potential attractions for Jones’ CJI events. When asked about bringing in MMA competitors to draw broader audiences, Jones enthusiastically pitched the idea of Johnson versus Garcia as what he described as “box office” entertainment.
“Demetrious versus Gabi in the gi. Oh my gosh. In the gi. Demetrious, mate, don’t be afraid. Come on, DJ,” Jones said during the interview, clearly excited about the spectacle such a match would create.
According to Jones, he actually approached Johnson about the potential matchup earlier this year. However, the former UFC champion wasn’t interested in taking on the challenge.
“Unfortunately, he was scared of her,” Jones joked, though he clarified that Johnson had declined the offer when formally presented.
The proposed bout would feature significant size and style differences. Garcia’s imposing physical presence in Brazilian jiu-jitsu against Johnson’s speed, technique, and mixed martial arts background. Jones believes such matchups capture the essence of what makes grappling compelling for broader audiences.
“It would be an exciting match,” Jones admitted when pressed about who might win, though he remained diplomatically neutral about the outcome.
The idea fits perfectly with Jones’ philosophy of creating entertaining spectacles that grow the sport of jiu-jitsu. His first CJI event featured him facing Garcia in what became one of the most talked-about grappling matches in recent memory.
During the interview, Craig Jones also talked about his current dynamic with the UFC. According to Jones, Dana White and his team are looking to bring him in as a coach for Jack Della Maddalena as he prepares to take on Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. Now, with a potential bout against Islam Makhachev on the horizon, JDM wants Jones in his corner once again.
