Alexander Volkanovski's grappling coach shares thoughts on youngest-ever IBJJF champ failing USADA drug test
Alexander Volkanovski's grappling coach, Craig Jones, recently shared his thoughts on Mica Galvao's one-year suspension following a failed USADA drug test.
Galvao is arguably the most talented emerging star in jiu-jitsu, and his suspension sent shockwaves around the world. But according to Jones, he saw the controversy coming.
Galvao was subject to a drug testing after winning the IBJJF 2022 title to become the youngest-ever black belt world champion. However, following his suspension, the man whom he defeated in the final, Tye Ruotolo, was awarded the title. Ruotolo not only took the Brazilian's title, but also his record for the youngest black belt winner in IBJJF history.
Craig Jones released a video on YouTube discussing Mica Galvao's failed drug test following reports. He said this:
"Breaking news, just like I predicted, a young black belt world champion has failed a drug test. Obviously it's a big surprise that a jacked, 19-year-old vegan Mica Galvao has failed his drug test. He would've been the youngest black belt world champion in history... He has negotiated a one-year ban, most of the time you get three to four years..."
Watch the video below:
Craig Jones is one of the most talented grapplers in the world right now, having almost helped Alexander Volkanovski secure the lightweight title against Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 earlier this year.
He recently secured a silver in the 99 kilogram division at the 2022 ADCC world championships, which is often regarded as 'The Olympics of BJJ'.
Alexander Volkanovski shares his prediction for UFC 287: Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya
Alexander Volkanovski believes that his teammate at City Kickboxing, Israel Adesanya, will "rise to the occasion" against Alex Pereira at UFC 287 this weekend.
'Poatan' was down on the scorecards at UFC 281 in their previous bout, and managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat with a TKO win in round five.
Adesanya almost knocked Pereira out in the first round of their previous bout. 'The Great' stated that 'The Last Stylebender' won't miss this time around, and predicted a finish inside three rounds.
The pair of middleweight juggernauts are set to headline a stacked UFC 287 card, which will see Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal do battle in the co-main event.
Alexander Volkanovski previewed Periera vs. Adesanya during a recent YouTube video and said this:
"I think [Adesanya] can get the finish and I think he does get the finish. I don't think we're seeing the later rounds. I'm calling a third round finish..."
Watch the video below from 12:35: