Sources: Alexander Gustafsson planning UFC comeback
According to a reliable, exclusive source, Swedish UFC title challenger Alexander Gustafsson is planning and training for his UFC comeback.
Last year, following a submission defeat to Anthony Smith in Stockholm, Gustafsson retired. It was a tough loss on home soil, which seems to have affected his decision making. This thesis has been strengthened by Gustafsson repeatedly hinting at a comeback, as well as implying that the decision was impulsive. However, during several interviews he has not been willing to commit to a UFC comeback. Though it seems like the octagon return is in full swing, as a source recently told MMAnytt.
“It’s just a matter of time before Alexander Gustafsson returns to the UFC. He’s training hard at the gym. There’s a few things that need to be sorted out before a new fight can be booked, but the returns is on it’s way – it’s just a question of when,” a reliable source, close to Gustafsson told our sister site MMAnytt.se. The Source requested anonymity for a variety of reasons.
RELATED:
- Corey Anderson: “I F**ked up” passing on Rockhold, Gustafsson fights
- Jon Jones vs Alexander Gustafsson 3? “The Mauler” considering UFC revenge tour
- Alexander Gustafsson hints at possible UFC return
- 5 Things you might not know Alexander Gustafsson
The source also added that there are “rumours” of a training camp in the United States alongside his team. For many years Gustafsson would alternate between training at his home gym, Allstars Training Center in Stockholm, as well as the Alliance MMA in San Diego. This was the result of his first ever loss in MMA, which occurred against Phil Davis in 2010. Gustafsson decided to train with his former foe, learning from his mistakes and becoming a much more complete fighter.
While much of the landscape in the UFC light heavyweight division has changed, arch rival Jon Jones still holds the title. Gustafsson faced Jones twice for the title, once losing a close and somewhat controversial decision at UFC 165, then later via TKO in the rematch at UFC 232. Despite those losses, Gustafsson remained at the top of the division, finishing the likes of Glover Teixeira and Jimi Manuwa.
As the source makes clear, Gustafsson’s UFC comeback will happen, it’s just a matter of time.
