As Australian jiu-jitsu phenom Craig Jones prepares to step away from competitive grappling, a familiar shadow looms over his impending retirement: the persistent, often perplexing, rivalry with fellow superstar Gordon Ryan. While Jones hopes his departure from the mats will signal an end to their long-standing feud, Ryan appears intent on delivering a final, barbed farewell.
The Unending Antagonism
For years, Craig Jones and Gordon Ryan have been inextricably linked in the grappling world, their careers intertwined by a rivalry that transcends mere athletic competition. Their clashes have unfolded both on the mats, where Ryan has secured multiple submissions, and in the digital arena, where social media has served as a battleground for verbal jabs and personal accusations. Jones has previously pointed to Ryan`s alleged bullying tactics within the gym, while Ryan has retorted with claims of Jones employing underhanded strategies to maintain relevance.
Jones, however, finds himself increasingly baffled by the continued animosity. Following his retirement announcement, Ryan launched a fresh tirade online, prompting Jones to respond with a blend of bewilderment and characteristic dry wit. “Gordon’s been on a tirade on the internet against me today,” Jones remarked, adding, with a hint of irony, “As you can imagine, perfect grammar, perfect spelling, clear translation of the ideas he’s trying to get across.” Jones lightheartedly suggested he might refrain from reading Ryan`s pronouncements until they adhere to basic paragraph structure, opting instead for a CliffsNotes version if one were available.
“Honestly, I don’t even know what he means half the time. I don’t know why he’s angry that I’m leaving his city. He’s got his gym now, I’m leaving. Take it.”
Jones`s sentiment reflects a broader desire to move past the protracted conflict. He indicates that reconciliation efforts have been underway, noting a renewed camaraderie with John Danaher, Ryan`s esteemed coach. Yet, the friction with Ryan persists, a puzzling continuation for Jones, who claims to have been nothing but “complimentary towards the man.” This suggests a deeper, perhaps unarticulated, source of tension that even Jones struggles to comprehend.
The Future of “The King” and Competitive Grappling
Jones`s final competitive bout is slated for the weekend of August 30-31, though he plans to remain actively involved in the grappling community. A pertinent question arises: will the paths of Jones and Ryan ever cross again in a competitive setting, perhaps even at a “Craig Jones Invitational” event? Jones`s assessment of Ryan`s competitive future offers a nuanced perspective.
While acknowledging that “for enough money, for sure someone could lure him back in,” Jones expressed a strong belief that Ryan`s numerous health issues might genuinely mark the end of his competitive career. He draws parallels to previous instances where Danaher had suggested Ryan`s retirement, only for Ryan to return. However, this time, Jones feels there`s a tangible difference.
“Gordon, I don’t think would compete. I think his health issues—I think truly he’s done this time… this time I do believe that Gordon’s out.”
The landscape of professional grappling is replete with athletes who announce retirements only to return, drawn back by the allure of competition or financial incentives. Yet, if Jones`s prediction holds true, Ryan`s forced absence due to health would cast a different light on their unresolved rivalry. One competitor departs on his own terms, while the other might be sidelined by circumstances beyond his control.
A Chapter Closes, A Legacy Remains
As Craig Jones prepares for his final bow, the narrative of his career will undoubtedly include his fierce, often personal, rivalry with Gordon Ryan. It`s a testament to the intensity of combat sports, where personal dynamics frequently spill over into the professional arena. Whether Jones`s retirement will finally put an end to the lingering animosity remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that a significant chapter in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history is closing, leaving behind a complex legacy of technical mastery, strategic brilliance, and an enduring, head-scratching feud.
