D. Cormier (left) publishes text in support of A. Gustafsson (right). Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @dc_mma
Although he didn't win any belts during his time in the UFC, Alexander Gustafson He earned the respect of many fighters. After the Swede's retirement announcement, Daniel Cormier e Jon Jones, two tormentors of 'Alex', used their social networks to congratulate, thank, and wish them happiness in the new stage of life. Alexander faced 'Bones' in 2013 and 2018; against DC, the duel took place in 2015, for the light heavyweight title (up to 93kg.).
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“Alex, you will always be one of the best athletes on my journey. We agreed, we argued and we fought, but you made me better. You made the sport better”, wrote Daniel. “You are a warrior and you will truly be missed”, published the champion.
DC also reported that he understands Alexander's motivations for not wanting to continue working in martial arts professionally and that this is the moment when the now former athlete will truly enjoy life.
“I understand the changes in motivation, and for you, it's your family now. I say now you are starting to really live a good life. Congratulations on a great career, my friend! You are a hammer! See you around”, concluded Cormier, showing respect and admiration to his former rival in the Octagon.
When they faced each other, in October 2015, Daniel was making his first title defense, after having won the belt by defeating Anthony Johnson in May of the same year. On that occasion, DC was announced the winner by split decision from the judges, after the two athletes fought a historic battle over five rounds, at UFC 192. The duel even competed for the Ultimate Fight of the Year award.
Jon Jones, another athlete with whom Alexander shared the octagon, also spoke out on social media after the Swede's announcement. A few hours after being defeated by Anthony Smith in front of his compatriots and confirmed, still in the octagon, his retirement, Gustafsson received the support of the current light heavyweight champion.
“Honestly, I don’t believe you. But if you're serious, thank you for everything. You took the division to another level and made us better. Enjoy your family,” Jones posted on his official Twitter account.
Honestly I don't believe you but if you're serious, thank you for everything. You held the division to a standard and made us better. Go kick ass with that family.
- Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) June 1, 2019
In his career, 'Alex' competed for the Ultimate title on three occasions. In the first, in 2013, even though defeated, the Swede impressed the world by facing him on equal terms. Jon Jones, who reigned supreme in the division. The athlete was defeated in a unanimous decision by the judges, but forced Jones to impose his best game.
His last attempt to win the belt came in December last year, when he faced 'Bones' again. Gustafsson's performance was different this time. 'Alex' succumbed to the unquestionable talent of the American and was defeated by knockout in the third round.
Alexander ends his career at the age of 32 with a professional MMA record of 24 fights, 18 wins and six losses.
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