By Jim Edwards

Chael Sonnen made his debut in the world of grappling matchmaking last evening with his first ever event - 'Submission Underground'. 

Before the main card festivities could get underway, seven matches took place on the undercard with submission specialists from all across the world coming together at the Roseland Ballroom in Portland, Oregon. 

In the feature match on the preliminary card, two brown belts put it on the line with Kevin Dadik taking on Phil Schwartz of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu.

Dadik got the early advantage taking down Schwartz with a single leg and putting him on his back. From there, Dadik looked to attack the legs but Schwartz postured well and denied his opponent any opportunity of passing his signature 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu rubber guard. 

After a brief scramble, both made their way back to their feet but before long, Schwartz pulled guard and then attacked with an ankle lock which he abandoned after Dadik defended the position well. 

Schwartz then went for a failed kneebar attempt but Dadik them went to take his back and found himself on the bottom with Schwartz in top position. After another small scramble ensued, the roles were reversed with Dadik gaining top position. Dadik then expertly slapped on an armbar to get the tap and have his special opponent with Chael Sonnen in the cage afterwards.


Submission Underground Preliminary Card Results

Kevin Dadik def Phill Schwartz via armbar, 6:45
Amanda Diggins def. Liz Tracy via toe lock 4:08 
Howie Mole def. Alex Le via armbar 2:42 
Hannah Sharp def. Misty Davison (AliveMMA; Purple) via triangle, 0:59
Carsten Carlson def. Billy Yi via kneebar, 1:49
Adam Shelton def. Chris Martin after overtime (superior ride time)