Male fighter controversially kisses his much taller female opponent - before choking her out in bizarre match

 A controversial intergender Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fight almost never happened following a male opponent kissed his female counterpart.

Just days before the fight, Australian fighter Craig Jones grabbed the face of his much bigger opponent Gabi Garcia and kissed her on the lips.

That led to a confrontation at the face-off where Garcia could be heard saying: 'Man. You're a b***h man. Craig, really? F*** you. You crossed the line, crossed the line, crossed the line,' before slapping the camera away.

Jones, 33, was actually seen by some as the underdog for this bout despite boasting 55 career wins on his fighter resume.

That is because Garcia, from Brazil has 71 career wins including five MMA victories. 

Career results aside, there was also the size difference in the favour of the 38-year-old Garcia.

She is billed at 6ft2 inches tall and 95kg and towered over her opponent though Jones is actually the heavier of the two at 97kg.

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

In the video of the incident, the size difference is clear, but 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.

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.