After hearing UFC’s decision to allow Daniel Cormier to move up to heavyweight to challenge division’s champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 226 on July 7, the number one 205-pound contender Alexander Gustafsson expressed his disappointment as “The Mauler” even went as far as accusing Cormier of running from him, as he heavily campaigned for a rematch.
With DC’s current plans, it may take a while before Gustafsson gets his third shot at light heavyweight gold, but now ‘The Mauler’ acknowledges that the super-fight will be an entertaining one and eyeing a fight with the winner. In a recent appearance at ‘The Joe Rogan Experience’ podcast (Quotes via MMA Mania), Gustafsson offers some compliments to Cormier for his toughness:
“He did good, he didn’t lose as a heavyweight. He is good. He lifted (Josh Barnett) up like nothing.
“This fight against Stipe, if it was against another heavyweight I would probably say Stipe is going to win. But ‘DC’ is a really good heavyweight, so we will see what happens. He is world class, doesn’t take a step back and he is in your face.”
“He’s a badass, but ‘DC’ is such a competitive guy. He goes for it, in tough situations he eats it and comes right back and does what he does, always. And for being a fat guy, that guy is doing five rounds like nothing. So his conditioning is on top.”
If Cormier claims the heavyweight title, he’ll join Conor McGregor as the only simultaneous two-division champion in the history of the UFC. UFC 226 is set to take place on July 7th in Las Vegas for International Fight Week.
Two-time UFC title challenger Alexander Gustafsson announced today via social media that he’s signed a multi-fight contract with the UFC, which he calls the “biggest deal of my career.” as well took a jab at Daniel Cormier.
While others are talking about retirement, I just signed my new deal with the @ufc today. I am grateful, excited, and I will be fighting very soon! I need to thank my family, my team @wesportagency and @allstarsgymsweden . I would also like to give a special thank you to my fight management @neems01 and @majdishammas at Moments Sports Management for securing the biggest deal of my career. Soon to be the world champion!!! #soontobeworldchamp #team #loyalty #family
Gustafsson twice competed for the UFC’s 205-pound title and suffered hard-fought decisions both times against Jon Jones.
Gustafsson hasn’t competed since last May, because of a shoulder injury. He is riding a two-fight win streak.
