UFC 165: What We Learned from Brendan Schaub vs. Matt Mitrione

The lone heavyweight bout from the UFC 165 main card was a tussle between The Ultimate Fighter castmates Brendan Schaub and Matt Mitrione. Billed as a grudge match between two heavy hitters, the end came swiftly, but not in the expected manner.

It took less than a round for Schaub to finish his opponent via submission, choking Mitrione unconscious.

What we'll remember about this fight

The fight was pretty short, but it was sweet, with some nice exchanges before it came to a close. More than anything else, we'll remember the finish—it was a nice one.

We may also remember it for Schaub's continued progression and Mitrione's continued failure to grow as a mixed martial artist.

What we learned about Schaub

He came into the UFC as a striker but discovered that his jaw wasn't up to the task. Last time out, he outwrestled Lavar Johnson, and now he submitted Mitrione.

It seems "The Hybrid" has reinvented himself, turning from a one-dimensional boxer into a more well-rounded, complete fighter. When you consider some of the knockouts he's taken, the change is not only intelligent, but necessary.

We'll see how far his new approach takes him in the heavyweight division.

What we learned about Mitrione

His late start in mixed martial arts may preclude the possibility of Mitrione developing an advanced, all-around game.

While he is a fantastic athlete and dangerous striker, other fighters have figured him out, which is bad news. 

He may have already peaked.

What's next for Schaub

I'm not sure the win should earn Schaub a top-ranked opponent. I'd like to see him get another win under his belt first. 

Maybe Todd Duffee would be available?

What's next for Mitrione

It's possible that he is given his release. If not, he'll likely receive an opponent without much of a following.