Alexander Gustafsson is the former UFC light heavyweight number one contender who has come up short in two separate bouts for the 205-pound title. Gustafsson first lost a close decision to Jon Jones at UFC 165, followed by another close decision loss to current champion Daniel Cormier at UFC 192. Going forward, however, Gustafsson has been told by UFC that they have “big plans” for him.
The “big plans” that Gustafsson referred to apparently came directly from the top, as the Swedish star said he was told by UFC President Dana White and UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta to expect big things going forward.
“I do not want to be a journeyman,” said Gustafsson to Allehanda (via BloodyElbow.com). “I do not want to be a fighter that people should beat to get a title fight. I do not want to be in fights where people see me as an obstacle on the road. I want to be the man challenging.”
Gustafsson continued, “I’m not satisfied with being ranked second and third. I appreciate what people say to me and that they give me credit. But for me personally, it’s not enough. I want to go all the way. I spoke to Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta on Friday. ‘Big plans’ was all they said. We’ll see what they have to offer. I am 28 and I see myself involved with this a few more years. I want to go some more years.”
