Robert Whittaker Finishes Derek Brunson in the First (UFC Melbourne Results) | MMAWeekly.com

Robert Whittaker got the attention of the top of the middleweight division on Saturday when he finished eighth-ranked Derek Brunson in the first round of the UFC Fight Night 101 main event in Melbourne, Australia.

Brunson, a 3-time Division II All-American wrestler, quickly looked to get the fight to the ground, but Whittaker defended the takedown attempt and landed an uppercut as the fighters separated. Brunson then went berserk. He rushed forward with a flurry of punches, abandoning all defensive.

He landed shots and backed Whittaker up. For a moment, Brunson was overwhelming Whittaker with constant pressure. That quickly changed when Brunson walked into a left hand that staggered him. Whittaker looked for the finish and Brunson did his best to fire back. Just as it looked as if Brunson had recovered, Whittaker delivered a high kick that landed flush on the jaw of the 32-year-old. Brunson sank to the canvas and Whittaker ended it with a series of left hands.

RELATED > UFC Melbourne: Whittaker vs. Brunson Live Results and Fight Stats

“We had a solid game plan. And we knew that he was going to come out tough, but I hand no idea that he was going to come out that hard,” said Whitaker following the fight.

“I knew I had to weather the storm. He’s a heavy hitter. I tried to duck and weave as best as I could, but I stuck to my game plan. I stuck to my setup. I ended up breaking out, circling out, and working to his weakness,” added the 25-year-old.

“He hits hard, very hard. His other opponents would testify to that. But I hit hard too. I’m just as fast. I’m just as strong, and if you come at me with holes in your game I’m going to take it from you.”

Whittaker entered the fight ranked seventh in the 185-pound division. He’s unbeaten (5-0) since moving up to the middleweight class in 2014. With the first-round finish, a new middleweight contender emerged.

“I’ve been in the top ten for a while now.  I try to demonstrate my ability every time I step in here.  I’m ready for those top five contenders,” he said.  “I’m ready for my shot.”

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