Jake Matthews Submits Chidi Njokuani in 69 Seconds
The Celtic Kid Strikes Fast in Nashville
On July 12, 2025, Australian welterweight Jake Matthews delivered a lightning-quick finish at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Teixeira, submitting veteran Chidi Njokuani via short choke at 1:09 of Round 1 inside Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. The win marked Matthews’ third consecutive UFC victory and showcased his evolving grappling arsenal.
A Tactical Blitz from the Opening Bell
Njokuani opened the bout aggressively, firing off a series of hard kicks to establish range. But Matthews (22-7 MMA, 15-7 UFC) quickly closed the distance, executed a slick takedown, and transitioned to back control. From there, he locked in a rear-naked choke variation, often referred to as a short choke, and cranked until Njokuani tapped.
The finish came just seconds after Njokuani attempted to shake Matthews off by standing up, but the hold remained tight, forcing the tap and silencing the crowd.
Matthews’ Momentum Builds
At just 30 years old, Matthews is entering his prime. The win over Njokuani follows back-to-back decision victories over Phil Rowe and Francisco Prado, and further solidifies his reputation as one of the division’s most well-rounded threats.
Post-fight, Matthews called out Gilbert Burns, signaling his intent to climb into the top tier of the welterweight rankings.
“I want someone in the top 10. I’m ready,” Matthews said in his Octagon interview.
Njokuani’s Streak Snapped
Njokuani (25-11 MMA, 5-4 UFC), a veteran of both Bellator and the UFC, saw his three-fight win streak come to a sudden halt. Despite his striking pedigree, he was unable to defend Matthews’ grappling transitions and suffered his first submission loss since 2018.
Final Thoughts: Matthews Makes His Case
Jake Matthews didn’t just win—he made a statement. In a division stacked with contenders, his ability to finish fights quickly and call out elite names shows a fighter ready for the spotlight. With a three-fight win streak and a growing fan base, “The Celtic Kid” may be one big win away from title contention.
For full fight coverage and video highlights, visit MMA Junkie’s recap and MMA News’ breakdown.
