UFC 155 opened with the first of three main card Middleweight fights as Chris Leben took on Derek Brunson. In the end, it was the debuting Brunson who took the win with a unanimous decision victory, 29-28 x3.

This was Leben's first fight back after a year layoff due to drug related issues, while Brunson took the fight on short notice. And, sadly, both of those factors showed in an ugly fight. What could have been a fun, fast paced fight instead was a very slow, plodding affair. By round 2, both men were exhausted. Brunson used his wrestling to ride out the clock and earn the win, but certainly did not impress along the way. Bad start to the PPV.

What was the high spot of this fight?

Brunson provided some fine entertainment value when the fight ended as he screamed and fell stiffly to the mat. It was a weird reaction, especially after such a bad win.

Where do these guys go from here?

Strikeforce veteran Brunson may have won, but this won't earn him much in terms of future fights. Expect to see him quickly relegated to prelim status next time out.

More Bloody Elbow coverage of UFC 155

We'll have to wait and see what the future holds for Leben. He's always been known for this zombie-like ability to keep coming, but here, he couldn't combine that with any effective offense. He needs a win next time out, though I have a very tough time thinking about who he should face. Perhaps Vitor Belfort if he loses to Bisping?

Watch it now, later, or never?

Never. Find the gif of Brunson celebrating, laugh at the absurdity, then move on.

Latest From Our Partners

• Most Shocking Upsets (BR)
• 10 Biggest Risktakers in MMA (BR)
• 10 Best Moustaches in MMA History (BR)
• 25 UFC Fights That Should Have Happened (BR)
• UFC: Worst Referee Calls in 2012 (BR)
• Best Non-NCAA Wrestlers in MMA (BR)