Alexander Gustafsson Still Expected to Fight at UFC 227 But Needs New Opponent

Former two-time title contender Alexander Gustafsson is expected to make his return to action at UFC 227 on Aug. 4 in Los Angeles but he needs a new opponent.

Originally, Gustafsson had been rumored for that card in a light heavyweight showdown against Luke Rockhold, who was making his move up from middleweight for the fight.

Unfortunately, Rockhold suffered a shin injury that required surgery, which will keep him sidelined until the latter part of the year.

That leaves Gustafsson without an opponent but UFC president Dana White confirmed on Sunday that the top ranked contender is still expected to fight in August once they find him a new opponent.

“We have to get him another opponent,” White said about Gustafsson at the post fight press conference for UFC Fight Night in Liverpool. “We’ll keep him on that card and get him another opponent. Rockhold screwed up shin.”

Gustafsson last fought on May 2017 when he earned a fifth round knockout against Glover Teixeira at a bout held in Stockholm, Sweden.

Gustafsson was forced to the sidelines for the remainder of the year dealing with an injury shoulder that required surgery. Just recently, Gustafsson inked a new multi-fight contract with the UFC and now it appears he’ll make his return to action in August.

The only problem now is finding Gustafsson a worthy opponent.