Owen Jones transitions from rugby to submission grappling ahead of debut
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 6:04 PM
Last updated Jun 13, 2026
Owen Jones prepares for his promotional debut in submission grappling on June 26 at ONE Fight Night 44, facing Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. Initially aiming for a rugby career as a scrum-half, Jones's trajectory changed when physical constraints ended his rugby aspirations. After supporting his sister at a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, he discovered his passion for grappling. Transitioning from rugby to martial arts, Jones is now set to compete on a global stage, a significant step in his athletic journey.
- •Owen Jones debuts at ONE Fight Night 44 on June 26.
- •He will compete against Fabricio Andrey in Bangkok.
- •Jones transitioned from rugby following physical limitations.
- •His wrestling career began unexpectedly while supporting his sister.
- •Jones trained extensively at Apex Jiu-Jitsu in London.
- 6:04 PMYahoo Sports — ‘It Was My Original Dream’ – How Owen Jones Pivoted From Rugby To Chasing Submission Grappling Glory
"The Londoner’s unlikely journey led him from the rugby pitch to the biggest stage of submission grappling.
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