At UFC on FUEL TV 5, lightweight Matt Wiman proved he is a much better fighter than most people gave him credit for.

Criminally underrated for years, “Handsome” proved that he can play the game of a dangerous fighter and come out on top.

Wiman took out grappling expert Paul Sass with a picture perfect armbar that would make many seasoned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu veterans blush.

While Sass, who was a hometown favorite for the Nottingham, England crowd, is “only” a brown belt in BJJ, 12 of his 13 victories had come via submission heading into the fight. If you’re still not ready to give Wiman his due, also bear in mind this was Sass’ first professional loss.

Also consider this: the Eastern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu product would be on a seven-fight win streak if it wasn’t for poor judging in his two losses during that span (Sam Stout at UFC 97 and Dennis Siver UFC 132).

Wiman does have some tough losses on his record, losing a close decision to Roger Huerta before either man entered the Octagon and getting dominated by Spencer Fisher and Jim Miller.

However, even before the breakthrough victory over Sass, the eight-year pro had some quality wins over the likes of Michihiro Omigawa, Thiago Tavares and Mac Danzig.

While none of these guys are likely going to be future champions, they are tough fighters that can give a large percentage of the lightweight division some problems.

Looking at Wiman’s recent fights, where he’s on a 5-1 run dating back to Dec. 2009, he has shown serious punching power, vicious ground and pound, explosive wrestling and a great chin.

Now, Wiman may not be ready to wear UFC gold but he is certainly ready for a top 10 fighter at 155-pounds. If Saturday’s performance was any indication, the 29-year-old will have his hand raised once again and prove he belongs with the division’s elite.