Fight between Werdum and Gustafsson defines who will stay in the UFC, says Dana White

D. White at a press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

Ultimate's president, Dana White, suggested that he may let go of one of his big names in the company's final years. Specifically in the meeting between Fabricio Werdum e Alexander Gustafson, which takes place on July 25th, on 'Ilha da Luta', the 'boss' hinted that the loser could have his career ended within the organization. The statement was made in an interview with 'ESPN'.

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“We know Werdum is getting older. It’s a fight for both of them to decide who will stay (in MMA) and who will take the next step in another chapter of their life”, said the president.

White also took the opportunity to comment on Gustafsson's return to the Octagon after announcing his early retirement from the sport in June last year after losing to Anthony Smith. According to the president, the Swede had time to think about his career in the sport and deserved another opportunity to rise again, this time among the heavyweights (up to 120,2kg).

“I think there was a lot of pressure on 'Gus' (Gustafsson) in this (MMA) business. You're dealing with training, the fights, wins, losses, the press, the UFC, the politics that surround these things. I think a lot of these guys start to get tired. People cope in different ways. Some take a break and disappear a little. Others get emotional and retire. I think Gustafsson took a break and understood that he wanted to come back. We gave him the opportunity”, he concluded.

Although he never won an Ultimate title, Alexander was a challenger for the number one light heavyweight division (up to 93kg) on ​​three occasions (2013, 2015 and 2018). In all of them the Swede ended up being defeated. At 33 years old, the athlete has had four defeats in the last six appearances. His last victory came in May 2017, when he beat Glover Teixeira.

Former heavyweight champion (up to 120,2kg.), Fabricio Werdum He doesn't hide from anyone that he is close to the end of his career. Close to turning 43 and with a winning record, the Brazilian is heading towards his last fight under his contract with the UFC, and he still doesn't know if he intends to continue acting after the July clash. The Gaucho has three negative results in the last five fights.