Israel Adesanya staked his claim as one of the best middleweights in the world at UFC 230 by knocking out Derek Brunson in the first round.
Israel Adesanya has taken the UFC by storm after a decorated career as a kickboxer. “The Last Stylebender” is 3-0 in the Octagon, outclassing Brad Tavares in his last appearance. Adesanya is the ninth-ranked middleweight in the world and was a one-night tournament champion in GLORY Kickboxing.
Derek Brunson rose to contendership with an impressive five-fight win streak that featured four first-round knockouts. His run came to an end after current-champion Robert Whittaker knocked him out in the first round. Since then, Brunson is 2-2 with knockout wins over Dan Kelly and Lyoto Machida. Brunson was knocked out by Jacare Souza in his last outing.
Israel Adesanya stuffed a takedown right away, but Brunson held on to a clinch to get Adesanya to the fence. Brunson was working his dirty boxing then went for a takedown but dragged Adesanya’s shorts in the process, forcing Herb Dean to separate them. Adesanya flipped Brunson the bird in response to the shorts grab. Adesanya landed a jab but Brunson was desperate for a takedown. Adesanya continued to stuff takedowns, then finally found enough space to land a big one. Brunson shot for a takedown and Adesanya caught him with a knee on the way in.
Brunson was rocked and Adesanya put it on him, knocking him down with another knee. Adesanya opened up, knocking Brunson down with a head kick followed by a right hand. Brunson stayed on his feet, then it was an uppercut and a right hand that finally put Brunson away.
It was a brilliant performance by the former kickboxer, who corrected Joe Rogan when he said, “welcome to the top 10,” by saying “top-five, top-five.”
Israel Adesanya def. Derek Brunson by TKO (Punches) Round 1 (4:51)
