Male fighter CHOKES OUT female opponent he controversially kissed in the stare-down before intergender contest – but the loser had a surprising reaction after the fight

The controversial first ever intergender Brazilian Jiu Jitsu bout ended in just two rounds.

The match between Craig Jones and Gabi Garcia had originally been ‘cancelled’ when chaos ensued in a face-off.

During the pre-fight meeting between the two ahead of the ‘Craig Jones invitational’ Jones grabbed Garcia’s face before kissing her on the lips.

Jones, 33, entered the fight boasting a record of 55 career wins but was viewed by some as an underdog against the Brazilian Garcia, who has a total of 71 career wins including five in MMA competition.

But that would play out very differently on the mat as the Australian fighter added another win to his resume, this time by rear naked choke.

 It was a fight that almost never made it to fruition following Jones’ antics in the face-off.

In a video of the incident, shared on Jones’ Instagram account, Garcia could be seen once again towering over her shirtless opponent as they locked eyes.

Almost instantly, however, Jones appeared to grab Garcia’s head and lock lips.

Garcia, 38, let out a scream of sorts in response, and could be seen chasing Jones as he fled the scene.

Jones then took to social media proclaiming ‘Brazilians can’t take a joke’ and that the fight was cancelled, before declaring the fight back on.

Craig Jones won the bout against Gabi Garcia by rear naked choke in the second round

Despite the obvious size advantage for Garcia, it would be Jones that would have the upper hand.

In the video, the 33-year-old is able to maintain back control of his bigger opponent with Garcia struggling to keep him from locking in a submission.

But her efforts would be fruitless, as she gives a thumbs up to the ref just a second or two before having to tap out.

Jones’ victory was met with a smattering of boos as he released the submission hold. 

In a perhaps surprising twist, the two shared a moment of respect following the conclusion of the bout.

Before the video ends Garcia can be seen on her knees bowing her head to the mat as a sign of respect for her opponent.

And the 38-year-old even took to social media to express her grattitude to Jones following her defeat.

In an Instagram story Garcia said: ‘I really want to express my grattitude and love for you @craigjonesbjj!

‘This months you worked hard and change the sport! I hope one day people have the chance to know you!

‘U [sic] are an incredible person! Genuine! Funny and one of my best friends now! I’m proud of you! U [sic] made!!

‘Thanks for giving me the opportunity to make one more dream come true!

I wait one life for this moment and only happened because you! From my heart love and respect!’

It was an end to the saga that not many could have seen coming following their clash during the stare-down.

But it would appear that Jones certainly has Garcia’s love and respect following their hard fought bout.