CHICAGO – George Sullivan is clearly relieved to get his first UFC fight – and win – out of the way. Especially in light of some recent issues.

Sullivan (15-3 MMA, 1-0 UFC), who earned a 29-28 unanimous-decision victory over Mike Rhodes (6-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) today at UFC on FOX 10, said he was dealing with a sinus infection on the eve of the event.

However, in his preliminary-card bout, which aired on FOX Sport 1 from Chicago’s United Center, he pulled off the upset. It was an accomplishment, the eight-year pro said, because of what he felt like.

“A hesitant, nervous rookie,” he said. “I couldn’t breathe last night. I was nervous. I think I just need to get used to traveling and stuff, and I think the next fight I’m going to really be able to hit as hard as I usually do.”

Sullivan discusses the sinus issue, as well as his involvement in a controversial newspaper report about brain injuries, in the above video.

For the latest on UFC on FOX 10, stay tuned to the UFC Events section of the site.