New Wave Team Unveils Strong Lineup for CJI 2 Despite Missing Key Fighters

NEW YORK, NY – The New Wave Brazilian jiu-jitsu team, led by John Danaher, has finalized its roster for the Craig Jones Invitational 2 (CJI 2) after facing significant absences. Notably missing are BJJ stars Gordon Ryan and Nicholas Meregali due to health issues and injuries.

Danaher confirmed that four out of five members of the team are set for the sought-after $1 million tournament, stating, “Gordon (Ryan) is very sick at this point, so I don’t believe he’ll be competing again. Nicholas (Meregali) is very badly injured.” Ryan’s ongoing health struggles and Meregali’s recent shoulder surgeries have limited Danaher’s selection options, simplifying some of the team’s decisions.

The team will be led at 88 kg by Giancarlo Bodoni, the reigning two-time ADCC world champion. Bodoni secured gold medals in both the 2022 and 2024 championships, solidifying his spot as a formidable competitor. Adding strength to the roster, Luke Griffith, a silver medalist at ADCC 2024, will represent the 99 kg weight class.

To fill the lighter and heavier divisions, Danaher has selected Dorian Olivarez for the 66 kg class and “Big” Dan Manasoiu for those competing over 99 kg. The remaining slot at 77 kg remains open, and Danaher revealed plans for an internal trial to determine that final competitor. “(77 kg) is not an obvious choice, so we’d probably have to do an internal trial,” he indicated, highlighting the talent pool of Oliver Taza, Davis Asare, Izaak Michell, and Jason Nolf vying for the spot.

Details about the internal trials for the 77 kg position have yet to be announced, though Danaher suggested that these selections might not be broadcast live for public viewing. CJI 2, co-promoted with Quintet, is generating excitement within the BJJ community, as teams finalize their rosters ahead of the event.

This recent announcement makes New Wave the second team to confirm its lineup for CJI 2, following Team Misfits Australasia. With five weight classes to fill and a competitive landscape taking shape, Danaher and New Wave are aiming to showcase their talent in an event that promises to elevate Brazilian jiu-jitsu to new heights.