WATCH: Japanese legend Masakazu Imanari schools Craig Jones on the dangerous art of leg locks

Craig Jones may be one of the best grapplers in the world today, but even he knows that rolling with Masakazu Imanari is no walk in the park.

As Imanari gears up for his return to action at ONE 170 this Friday, Jan. 24, ONE Championship shared a clip on Instagram of the Japanese submission specialist training with the beloved Australian:

The footage captures an intense exchange, with both men jockeying for position on the mats. However, when Imanari swiftly transitions into a leg lock attempt, Jones reacts with a moment of visible concern — a testament to the Japanese’s lethal skill set.

Imanari has long been known as ‘Ashikan-Judan,’ or ‘The Master of Leg Locks.’ A high-level catch wrestler and Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, he is revered for his signature ‘Imanari Roll,’ a move that has influenced countless grapplers looking to set up devastating heel hooks.

Beyond his accolades in the grappling world, Imanari has carved out an impressive career in mixed martial arts (MMA).

Since his MMA debut in 2000, he has competed in some of Asia’s most prestigious promotions, including a six-fight stint under the ONE banner.

Unsurprisingly, the majority of his victories in the all-encompassing sport have come via submission.

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Masakazu Imanari faces Marcelo Garcia at ONE 170

Masakazu Imanari reports for duty at ONE 170, which takes place before a sold-out crowd at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

This time, he takes on a fellow legend in an openweight submission grappling contest — none other than Marcelo Garcia.

For die-hard fans, Garcia needs no introduction. Widely regarded as one of the greatest BJJ competitors of all time, the Brazilian boasts an unmatched resume, including five IBJJF world championships and four ADCC world titles.

This bout marks Garcia’s long-awaited return to competition — his first since a dominant performance at the 2011 ADCC World Championships.

With two icons sharing the stage, this matchup promises to be a masterclass in submission grappling.