The Craig Jones Invitational 2 just added another one of the world's best grapplers to its already star-studded lineup. Vagner Rocha will step in for Team New Wave, replacing "Big" Dan Manasoiu as the team's second wild card selection. Dan was forced to withdraw due to illness, but is expected to return back to competitive jiu-jitsu soon.

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While Big Dan’s size and leg lock expertise made him one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the tournament, Vagner brings an entirely different—and equally intimidating—set of skills to the table. Known for his relentless physicality, suffocating control, and a knack for making opponents deeply uncomfortable, Rocha is one of the most seasoned veterans in professional grappling today. Vagner has been successful at the highest levels for years and he is the only man to medal in his weight class at all four of the last ADCC World Championships.

This move adds a fresh strategic wrinkle for Team New Wave. Rocha will slot in as the team's -88kg representative, with Bodoni and Griffith bumping up. This does take away sheer size from the squad that Big Dan provided in spades, and with hulking monsters like Victor Hugo and Felipe Pena in the mix that is a factor to watch for the Austin-based team.

Vagner has a long history with the New Wave team, having competed against many of them before (including Gordon Ryan, Nicholas Meregali, Luke Griffith, and even the team's other wildcard Mica Galvão). Now they join forces in pursuit of the $1,000,000 grand prize in Las Vegas, NV on August 30th-31st.

Team New Wave At CJI 2

• -66kg: Dorian Olivarez
• -77kg: Mica Galvão
• -88kg: Vagner Rocha
• -99kg: Giancarlo Bodoni
• +99kg: Luke Griffith

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