Craig Jones Submits Chael Sonnen Twice With Buggy Choke at CJI 2 in Las Vegas
Australian grappling superstar Craig Jones pulled off one of the most shocking submission feats of 2025 at Craig Jones Invitational 2, choking out Chael Sonnen twice in the same night with back-to-back buggy chokes. Fans at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas erupted as Sonnen, a former UFC contender, was rendered unconscious two separate times in a wild scene.
Chael Sonnen Steps In on Short Notice
Originally, Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson was expected to face Jones, but when he withdrew, Sonnen agreed to compete on just a few days’ notice. True to his wrestling pedigree, Sonnen shot for an early takedown. That decision instantly backfired as Jones countered with a tight buggy choke that put “The Bad Guy” to sleep in round one.
CRAIG JONES puts Chael to SLEEEP 😴
— The Fight Guy (@thefiteguy) September 1, 2025
via BUGGY choke!! #CJI2 (the 1st time) pic.twitter.com/SUjKttuPXW
A Second Buggy Choke Ends It Again
After regaining consciousness, Sonnen insisted on continuing, asking the referee to restart. Once again, he dove for a leg attack. But Jones remained calm, snared him in another buggy choke, and Sonnen was out cold for the second time. The referee waved it off as the arena roared in disbelief.
https://t.co/fqDaGS6XiY pic.twitter.com/Vxe88b7QdC
— Lock-In Jiu-Jitsu (@lockinjiujitsu) September 1, 2025
Sonnen Reacts With Classic Humor
Despite the embarrassment of being choked unconscious twice, Sonnen shrugged it off online. Posting to X, he joked that he thought the contract was for a “3 out of 5” series and claimed he was simply relaxing in the position.
The first thing you do in a position like that is relax. That’s all that was. I don’t blame anybody and I’m not upset. Misinterpretations happen.
— Chael Sonnen (@ChaelSonnen) September 1, 2025
I forgive you. https://t.co/IsnHPlxMfJ
Craig Jones Adds To His Legacy
Jones’ performance at CJI 2 further solidified his reputation as one of the most creative submission grapplers in the world. The buggy choke, rarely seen at the elite level, became the highlight of the night. For Sonnen, the spectacle was another chapter in a career defined as much by entertainment and personality as by results inside the cage.
FAQs About Craig Jones vs. Chael Sonnen at CJI 2
Was Chael Sonnen really choked out twice?
Yes. Craig Jones submitted Sonnen twice with buggy chokes in the same match at CJI 2.
What is a buggy choke?
The buggy choke is a submission from bottom side control, using the legs and arms to trap the opponent’s head and arm in a tight squeeze, often surprising wrestlers who think they’re safe in top position.
Why did Sonnen fight Craig Jones?
Sonnen stepped in on short notice to replace Olympic wrestler Gable Steveson, who withdrew from the event.
How did Sonnen react after the loss?
In classic fashion, Sonnen laughed it off on social media, joking about the rules and saying he was just “relaxing” in the choke.
What’s next for Craig Jones?
Jones continues to push his invitational events and cement his status as one of the best grapplers in the world, drawing attention for his innovative submissions.
