Alexander Gustafsson interested in comeback fight against Luke Rockhold
It’s no secret: Alexander Gustafsson may have retired before being ready to do so. In July this year, MMAnytt exclusively broke the news that Gustafsson was itching for a return to MMA, and that his retirement may have been premature. Now, he still seems to be riding the same lines in regard to a return. He is even opening up for a possible fight with former middleweight champ Luke Rockhold.
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Speaking to MMA Viking, Gustafsson reiterated much of what he previously told MMAnytt: That he made the decision to retirement in the moment, and began having second thoughts shortly after.
“It came quite fast… I was home for a couple days, and I had itching in my hands and wanted to get back and train,” Gustafsson said.
Gustafsson retired following a fourth round submission loss to Anthony Smith in Stockholm earlier this year. That was his second consecutive loss after a failed bid to capture the light heavyweight title in a rematch against Jon Jones.
“Luke Rockhold would be a good payday”
The Swede has been enjoying time with his family and friends, and jokes about becoming a heavyweight during his rettirement. When presented with the idea of facing Rockhold, Gustafsson is positive to the idea.
“Would love a fight. A fight against Luke would be a great way to comeback. He is a tough guy, a legend.”
Gustafsson was previously linked to facing in a bout that fell through due to injury. Rockhold is currently coming off two straight losses, just like Gustafsson, and is a big name in need to a comeback fight. UFC president Dana White has, however, suggested retirement for Rockhold following his brutal KO loss. Regardless of who he would potentially face, Gustafsson’s loyal fans would surely like to see him return, and Rockhold would be just as good a name as any.
