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Derek Brunson Breaks Silence On Surprise UFC Exit: 'Two Five-Fight Winning Streaks & Never Got A Title Shot'
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Derek Brunson Breaks Silence On Surprise UFC Exit: 'Two Five-Fight Winning Streaks & Never Got A Title Shot'

Originally posted on MMA News  |  By Harvey Leonard  |  Last updated 10/11/23

A new chapter is set to begin next month for mixed martial arts veteran Derek Brunson.

On November 24, Brunson will make the walk for the first time as a Professional Fighters League athlete. The 39-year-old will compete in a showcase bout against former champion Ray Cooper III at this year's PFL World Championship.

News of Brunson's promotional switch came last month, weeks after his surprise exit from the UFC was confirmed. At the time of his departure, the longtime middleweight contender was booked to share the cage with the #7-ranked Roman Dolidze at UFC 295, set for Madison Square Garden on November 11.

Instead, Brunson's major career choice has seen him swap the Octagon for the SmartCage and MSG for The Anthem next month, and he recently broke down the logic behind the change.

Brunson Laments Lack of Reward From UFC

During an interview with ESPN MMA's Marc Raimondi, Brunson broke his silence on his sudden release from the UFC and confirmed that he had requested it.

The 39-year-old explained his frustration at not being handed title shots after more than one length winning streak in the organization. With that, he is more motivated by the prospect of a fresh challenge in a new environment.

"It just didn't work out. I don't know, PFL is just a great opportunity for me. It's a new challenge, new venture," Brunson said. "I would say with the UFC, just being on these big steaks and not getting my title shot, which I thought I deserved. I was on two five-fight winning streaks and never got the title shot.

"Even back in the day, I had guys who were champions that wouldn't accept that fight against me. It kind of left me in no man's land and fighting title eliminators," Brunson continued. "New motivation, new venture for me."

Brunson's PFL journey will begin with a tough test in a few weeks' time, with the veteran slated to throw down with a two-time PFL champ.

While the ex-UFC fighter will meet Cooper III in a middleweight contest, he's confirmed his intentions to join the roster for next year's light heavyweight PFL season.

Please provide transcription credit with a link to this article if you use any of these quotes.

This article first appeared on MMA News and was syndicated with permission.

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