This week on the show, Maine and Miranda deep dive into the first half of the highly-anticipated men's Quintet bracket for Craig Jones Invitational 2. We break down four of the eight teams during this weeks preview. With the other 4 teams scheduled for next weeks show. We analyze the records and accolades, the strengths and potential vulnerabilities of each athlete on each team, and the strategic paths to victory that each team might pursue.

In our preview, we start with Team 10th Planet. We discuss the interesting team dynamic and how EBI pioneers like Geo Martinez and EBI 19 Champion Alan Sanchez, who are specialists in the submission-only format, will integrate with a newer CJI Quintet format. We talk about PJ Barch, the ADCC bronze medalist, whose formidable wrestling background and top pressure has proven to be an effective against the top level. PGF, EBI and CJJ champion Ryan Aitken with his blend of classic 10th Planet style with modern high-percentage techniques adding to the interesting and unpredictable team.

Next, we turn to Team Australasia, a squad meticulously assembled by respected coach and strategist Lachlan Giles, known for his analytical approach to the sport. This international lineup features the dynamic wild card IBJJF World Champion Fabricio Andrey, whose explosive and agile style makes him a threat from any position and any weight class. He is joined by Japanese competitor Kenta Iwamoto, who brings a relentless pace and a strong wrestling base. We discussed Lucas Kanard submission win at the first CJI over Victor Hugo. As well as the Giles Trials winners team Declan Moody and Belal Etiabari rounding out the team with Declan being an ADCC trials winner. 

We also analyze Team Americas, an intriguing DMV heavy lineup featuring athletes with diverse training backgrounds and philosophies, making them a true wild card in the bracket. This team features Deandre and Gavin Corbe, who utilize a modern, conceptual approach to training that contrasts sharply with the styles of their teammates. We looked at Elijah Dorsey, who had a strong, breakout performance at the ADCC East Coast Trials against Nicky Ryan coach of the B-team at the event. The team also includes wildcard Taylor Pearman, who achieved a 100% submission rate at the ADCC European trials, and former US National Wrestling Champion Pat Downey, whose transition into submission grappling adds a variable to the heavyweight picture.

Finally, we break down the balanced and formidable Team Europe. The team is spearheaded by 20-year-old Owen Jones, who had an impressive run to fourth place at the last ADCC by defeating several established veterans. He's supported by a lineup of seasoned talent, including three-time ADCC Trials winner and wildcard Paul Ardila, whose experience is a valuable asset, former IBJJF No-Gi World Champion Charles Negromonte, and Polish competitor Marcin Maciulewicz. This combination of youthful talent and veteran savvy makes them an opponent for any team in the bracket.

Next week, we will break down the other four teams in the bracket, including New Wave, B-Team, Atos, and Pedigo Submission Fighting, as well as the main event superfight between Craig Jones and Gable Steveson.

Recorded 8-18-2025.