A regioselective synthesis of poly-substituted aryl triflones through self-promoting three component reaction.

In the absence of any additional catalysts, the reactions of (CF(3)SO)(2)CH(2), aldehydes, and 1,3-dienes gave gem-bis(triflyl)cyclohexenes in excellent yields with high regioselectivity. gem-Bis(triflyl)cyclohexene products can be easily converted to the corresponding aryl trifluoromethyl sulfones.