UFC light heavyweight contender Alexander Gustafsson (18–4) fought in a spirited but ultimately losing effort against Jon Jones at UFC 165 in Toronto years back. The fight is often considered as one of the best light heavyweight bouts of all time, and for years, fans — and Gustafsson — have longed for a rematch.
With news of Jones’ positive UFC 214 drug test failure, that day may never come. For his part, however, Gustafsson is not surprised about the test failure, mainly because nothing about Jones surprises him anymore. Gustafsson provided his thoughts to Sweden’s MMABetz, who provided an English translation.
Very hard to say something right now before we know the whole story. We’ll wait and see what the B test says. Should it prove to be true, it’s a pity for our whole sport, sorry for DC who lost his belt against him, sorry for all his fans. It’s sad for me as well if it’s true. If there’s somebody I have been looking forward to fighting it’s him. Revenge in that fight is what I wanted. Am I surprised? No, nothing about that man surprises me anymore. But I do not want to judge him yet, not until we know everything. But if it’s true, then it would be best for him to end the sport.
Coming off a pair of wins, many expected Gustafsson to be next in line for a shot against Jones — though UFC President Dana White revealed following the test failure news that the promotion was considering a superfight between Jones and heavyweight kingpin Stipe Miocic. Now, “The Mauler” may never get his chance at revenge.
