Chael Sonnen’s return reportedly signed as UFC legend looks to avenge 2017 loss by stepping in on days’ notice

Chael Sonnen has reportedly signed to rematch Craig Jones at CJI 2 on Sunday

This weekend in Las Vegas, BJJ star Craig Jones’ game-changing grappling promotion, the Craig Jones Invitational, is set to return for its second event.

The majority of the focus is on a tournament format, which will now use a team format following some changes that were made after last year’s debut event.

However, like the previous instalment, Jones was also set to be in action at the event in a showcase bout that would’ve seen him face Olympic gold medalist wrestler Gable Steveson.

Shortly after Steveson’s MMA debut was announced, he withdrew from the grappling matchup, which then led to Jones calling out Chael Sonnen.

Sonnen responded with a video on social media where he agreed to the contest, though there wasn’t an official announcement to go with it.

Ariel Helwani has now reported that Jones versus Sonnen is signed for the Sunday of CJI 2, with the former UFC star still working the debut Real American Freestyle Wrestling event the day before.

Chael Sonnen will look to avenge his prior loss to Craig Jones at this weekend’s CJI 2

Chael Sonnen and Craig Jones aren’t just two of the biggest personalities in combat sports, they’re also former opponents.

The last submission grappling contest that Sonnen took part in was against the Australian star in 2017.

They faced off in the ADCC absolute division in Finland where Jones emerged victorious, beating the UFC legend via heel hook.

Beating Jones in a rematch on such short notice is certainly going to be a tall order for Sonnen this weekend in Las Vegas.