UFC Fight Night Results 151: Undefeated fighter gets destroyed, Veteran gets 23rd UFC win 

#5. Derek Brunson (18-7) vs. Elias Theodorou (16-2) (Middleweight)

Brunson vs. Theodorou

After consecutive losses to Israel Adesanya and Jacare Souza, another disappointment was not an option for Derek Brunson. As for Theodorou, it was an opportunity for the Canadian to break into the top ten rankings in the stacked Middleweight division.

At the end of the fight, Brunson had his hands raised in a bout that was fought at an expeditious pace.

Brunson's grappling proved to be the decisive factor as the American scored takedowns in rounds one and three despite Theodorou's resistance. The Spartan did win the second round owing to some smooth footwork, stance shifts and his usage of varied kicks.

However, Brunson's gameplan of working to his strengths and to exploit Theodorou's grappling weaknesses paid dividends. A well-deserved win for the 35-year-old, who was relieved to have ended his losing streak against Elias 'Cardio Machine' Theodorou.

Result: Derek Brunson def. Elias Theodorou via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

BIG slam by @DerekBrunson #UFCOttawa pic.twitter.com/awu1M53ZQ8

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) May 5, 2019

Derek Brunson returns to the win column with a unanimous decision victory in the co-main event tonight! Congratulations @DerekBrunson! #UFCOttawa pic.twitter.com/cyUMyyyBhU

— The MMA Stream (@TheMMAStream) May 5, 2019

YouTube video: UFC Ottawa: Derek Brunson Octagon Interview https://t.co/jETtoxWf0S pic.twitter.com/f3l8Q7lxpX

— Vicio MMA (@VicioMMA) May 5, 2019