Rh(III)-Catalyzed Regio- and Chemoselective [4 + 1]-Annulation of Azoxy Compounds with Diazoesters for the Synthesis of 2<i>H</i>‑Indazoles: Roles of the Azoxy Oxygen Atom

A Rh­(III)-catalyzed tandem C–H alkylation/intramolecular decarboxylative cyclization of azoxy compounds with diazoesters for the synthesis of 3-acyl-2H-indazoles is disclosed. The azoxy instead of the azo group enables a distinct approach for cyclative capture, leading to a [4 + 1]-annulation rather than a classic [4 + 2] manner. The azoxy oxygen atom is traceless after annulation, and further removal from the product is not required. This reaction features a complete regioselectivity for unsymmetrical azoxybenzenes and a compatibility of monoaryldiazene oxides.