Jones (left) had difficulty getting past Gustafsson (right) at UFC 165. Photo: Disclosure
Jon Jones He is suspended after being caught in an anti-doping test, lost his category belt and is still unlikely to fight again, but continues to be the focus of attention among the light heavyweights. After rumors that “Bones” could be acquitted and be close to returning to the octagon, Alexander Gustafson spoke about his rival's situation, and expressed discomfort with a possible immediate “title shot” for the North American.
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“It wouldn’t be fair to give him a title shot. I'm not saying that I have to be the guy. I just think that, after everything that happened, it's also not fair for the other fighters, who have been 'sitting their butts on the ground' and fighting against each other. So, don't give him a title fight right away. First have a fun first fight and that's it”, declared the Swede, in an interview with the program 'The MMA Hour' (USA).
Gustafsson has already competed for the category belt on two occasions, and ended up being defeated on both occasions. First, in September 2013, he staged an epic fight against Jon Jones, considered by many as a victory for the Swede, but he lost in a unanimous decision by the judges. His second chance was in October last year, when he also lost on points to Daniel Cormier. The Swede, however, was interested in a rematch against Jones, and believes that a victory over the former champion puts him back in challenger status.
“I'm open to suggestions, so why not (have a fight with Jones)? But let's see what they say. Whatever you give me is fine. A second fight with Jones, who knows. It would be good”, he concludes.
Alexander Gustafson comes from a victory over Jan Błachowicz at UFC Fight Night 93, an event held in Hamburg, Germany. In the UFC, he has nine wins and four defeats.
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