Story edged Brenneman in the striking department early with a couple of choice shots and knees in the clinch, but Brenneman was able to land a solid right hand over the top followed by a takedown. Once in top control, Brenneman worked from half guard for most of the round, maintaining his position while Story hoped for a stand-up. It didn't come from referee Mark Matheny, and Brenneman easily took the first frame 10-9.
The second round was more of the same as Brenneman beat Story to the takedown and grinded him out for the majority of the round. Brenneman earned a takedown early in the third, but Story was able to work to an armbar attempt. Unfortunately, referee Mark Matheny stood the fighters up as Story looked for the extension.
Once the fight restarted, Brenneman took Story back to the ground, but back into the same position as before. Story cinched up a triangle choke as Brenneman tried to work. Surprisingly, he was able to escape the clutches of Story's legs. After escaping to his feet briefly, Story was able to get to full mount, only to be swept moments later when he tried to posture up to attempt a submission. The mistake cost Story his chance to end the fight, and secured the victory for Brenneman.
Story was considered one of the UFC's top welterweights after defeating Thiago Alves in his last performance at UFC 130 on May 28th. He had previously defeated NCAA All-American Johny Hendricks, grappling whiz Dustin Hazelett, British fighter Nick Osipczak, Jesse Lennox, and Brian Foster in the UFC following his debut loss to John Hathaway.
Brenneman filled in for Nate Marquardt on extremely short notice, only being notified that he'd be fighting fifteen minutes before the weigh-in. He had amassed a 2-1 record inside the Octagon, defeating both Jason High and Amilcar Alves at UFC Fight Night 21 and UFC Fight for the Troops 2 respectively. His lone loss came against Johny Hendricks at UFC 117 last August.
