Alexander Gustafsson got the job done against Jan Blachowicz in Hamburg.
Gustafsson almost became UFC light-heavyweight champion on two occasions, losing twice via razor tight split decisions. First the Swede went twenty five minutes against Jon Jones, making the then-untouchable great look beatable.
His second attempt at UFC gold came against Daniel Cormier, the man who took charge in Jones’absence. Gustafsson once again came so close. A split decision loss that had Cormier stating he’d never been beaten in such a fashion.
After the two losses, Gustafsson left the Octagon understandably disheartened, citing a need to find the love for the sport again. He took 11 months away, before returning tonight in Hamburg against Blachowicz with a decisive victory.
“You know, I still have a lot to work on, I have to improve everything all the time,” he said in the post-fight interview. “So, it’s a great fight, and a great opportunity fight in Hamburg.”
Now with a solid win under his belt, Gustafsson begins the trek back to title contention.
Ryan Bader, himself returning from a devastating loss, won in spectacular fashion after knocking out Ilir Latifi with a jumping knee.
Official: Ryan Bader def. Ilir Latifi by KO (knee) at 2:06 of the second round. #UFCHamburg pic.twitter.com/t5gKMJZaX3
— Classic UFC Moments (@UFCmoments) September 3, 2016
Both Gustafsson and Bader are currently ranked #2 and #4 respectively, and a bout between the two seems to be most likely. The victor could possibly become the number one contender, especially if Jones’ suspension continues past the current year.
