He says "here's our melody that's in a bluesy or "swing" rhythm" just before he starts to play it. I think in this case the tab/music notation is meant as guide for what notes to play, and the idea is show you the comparison between strict 8th notes as its written, and a "blues" or "swing" feel to it when he actually plays it. Lissa McCormick does the same thing in an acoustic fingerpicking lesson, where she shows a pattern "straight" and then again with a "blues" rhythm to it.

But you're right, the way he plays it is different from how its written. I think the idea was just to say "here is this riff, and I'll play it in a blues style", skipping demonstrating the riff with strict 8th notes.

You can always ask Christopher in his forum, he's super helpful.