Daniel Cormier will make his first title defense against Alexander Gustafsson

Cormier (left) and Gustafsson (right) will fight for the light heavyweight belt. Photo: Reproduction

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the problems of Jon Jones, which ended up making the light heavyweight title vacant, radically changed the trajectory of Daniel Cormier. A few months ago, he had been defeated by Jones and was well back in line for another shot at the title. Now, Cormier holds the title of the 93 kg division, with the triumph over Anthony Johnson at UFC 187, and he even knows who his first challenger will be. On Wednesday night (03), the Ultimate organization confirmed the Swede Alexander Gustafson as DC's next opponent.

The announcement took MMA fans by surprise, as Gustafsson comes from a setback to Anthony Johnson at home last January and it's not very common for athletes to receive title shots after being defeated – especially given the way the Swede was mercilessly knocked out in the first round. Furthermore, there was an expectation that Ryan bader could face Cormier, as he would face the new champion before the series of schedule changes caused by the confusion of Jon Jones.

Just as happened with the duel between Chris Weidman e Luke Rockhold, also announced by Dana White on Wednesday night, there is no official date or event for the dispute to take place.