#UFCMelbourne results: Robert Whittaker def. Derek Brunson via TKO (strikes) – Round 1, 4:07 https://t.co/c3TJXRiQUQ pic.twitter.com/ttB7yIcqWS
— MMAjunkie (@MMAjunkie) November 27, 2016
Robert Whittaker had a sterling win against Derek Brunson at UFC’S Saturday Fight Night, complete with a head-kick combo to finish
The fighter has now won six fights in a row, with victory over Derek Brunson his first headline win.
Brunson went down after four minutes and seven seconds of an exhilarating first round, reports MMA Fighting.
WHITTAKER vs BRUNSON!!! Tomorrow on @FS1! pic.twitter.com/dtGvAsUZaq
— Dana White (@danawhite) November 26, 2016
Brunson stood his ground landing some powerful shots, but Whittaker connected with a brutal combo knocking him backwards to the cage and down to the canvas.
‘The Reaper’ then pounced forcing the referee to intervene as Brunson lay defenceless.
Here’s the brutal moment the fight came to an end:
WHAT A FINISH! @RJWhittaker1990 TKOs @DerekBrunson after a crazy #UFCMelbourne main event! ??? https://t.co/74DrNewtwx
— BT Sport UFC (@btsportufc) November 27, 2016
Whittaker paid respect to his opponent after the fight.
He said:
We knew he was going to come out tough, but I had no idea he was going to come out that hard! I knew I had to weather the storm – he’s a heavy hitter. I tried to duck and weave as much as I could.
But I stuck to my gameplan, I stuck to my setup. And I ended up breaking out, circling out and working to his weakness.
Whittaker also revealed he has lofty ambitions for which this victory could prove a catalyst.
He said:
I’ve been in the Top 10 for a while now. I’ve tried to demonstrate my ability every time I step in here and make an example.
I’m ready for those Top 5 contenders. I’m ready for my shot. My run has started!
As reported by MMA Fighting, Whittaker earned $100k in bonuses for the win, with defeated Brunson taking $50k.
