Levi Jones-Leary

Early Life and Introduction to Martial Arts

Levi Jones-Leary was born on March 13, 1997, in Bondi, Sydney, Australia. From an early age, he displayed a strong competitive drive, initially excelling in athletics—particularly the 100-meter dash—and participating actively in football (soccer). At age 15, Levi discovered martial arts through "Links 4 Learning," a social program aimed at engaging at-risk youth through education and sport. Quickly captivated, he transitioned from mixed martial arts to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, training under Guilherme Neves at Garage Jiu-Jitsu.

Journey to Unity Jiu-Jitsu and Training Under Murilo Santana

Driven by aspirations to compete at the highest levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Levi began traveling to the United States to train at the academy of Rubens Charles "Cobrinha" in Los Angeles. In 2015, when Unity Jiu-Jitsu opened in New York, Levi seized the opportunity to train alongside renowned competitors Paulo Miyao, João Miyao, and head coach Murilo Santana. To finance these training trips, Levi worked diligently at a furniture delivery company in Australia, eventually saving enough to relocate temporarily to the United States. His dedication and talent quickly earned recognition at Unity, culminating in receiving his black belt from Murilo Santana in June 2018 after an impressive competitive run at brown belt.

Return to Australia and Leadership at Absolute MMA

Around 2021, Levi Jones-Leary returned to Australia, joining the prestigious Absolute MMA in Melbourne. His arrival significantly impacted the Australian grappling community, as Levi began leading classes and specialized workshops focused on his signature guard techniques. Collaborating closely with former Unity teammate Jeremy Skinner and other elite grapplers at Absolute MMA, Levi embraced his role as a leader and mentor, proudly representing Australia on the international stage and elevating the local BJJ scene.

Evolution of Guard Game and Technical Innovations

Signature Guard Techniques

Internationally recognized for his mastery of the De la Riva guard, berimbolos, and intricate lapel guard variations, Levi's guard game was notably shaped by his intensive training under the Miyao brothers and Murilo Santana at Unity. Santana once described Levi's guard as "impenetrable," highlighting his exceptional retention and positional control.

Adaptations Post-Injury

Following a knee injury in 2020, Levi strategically adapted his style, incorporating more closed guard and half guard techniques to minimize strain on his legs. Training at Absolute MMA further diversified his skillset, significantly enhancing his leg lock offense and defense, wrestling up from guard, and developing explosive passing sequences inspired by his teammates' dynamic styles.

ADCC Qualification and Transition to No-Gi Competition

In early 2023, Levi secured first place at the AJP Oceania Grand Slam (77 kg) in Sydney, solidifying his status as the region's premier gi competitor. Later that year, he transitioned successfully to no-gi competition, winning the 2024 ADCC Oceania & Asia Trials (77 kg) and qualifying for the prestigious ADCC World Championships. Demonstrating remarkable versatility, Levi adapted his gi-focused style to the wrestling-intensive ADCC ruleset, showcasing improved wrestling exchanges and refined leg-lock defenses developed alongside Absolute MMA's leg lock specialists. Levi ultimately withdrew from ADCC 2024 to compete in the Craig Jones Invitational, where he earned second place, narrowly losing by decision to Kade Ruoloto in the finals.

Competition Style and Notable Matches

Levi Jones-Leary is renowned for his precise guard retention, lapel guard mastery, and dynamic berimbolo attacks. His competitive record includes significant victories over elite competitors such as Lucas Lepri, Roberto Satoshi, Augusto "Tanquinho" Mendes, and Renato Canuto. In recent competitions, Levi expanded his strategic approach, incorporating aggressive passing, wrestling exchanges, and leg entanglements—particularly evident in his no-gi performances at the ADCC Trials and Craig Jones Invitational.

Influence on Australian Jiu-Jitsu Community

Since returning to Australia, Levi has emerged as a prominent figure within the national Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. His popular guard workshops attract practitioners nationwide, eager to learn his innovative techniques and strategic insights. Actively nurturing local talent, Levi has significantly elevated the technical standard of Australian grappling. Embracing his role as a flag-bearer for Australian BJJ, Levi continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of competitors, solidifying his legacy within the Australian martial arts landscape.