Alexander Gustafsson’s next opponent is official.
UFC president Dana White announced in the UFC Fight Night 30 post-event press conference that the light heavyweight contender will fight Antonio Rogerio Nogueira in London, England on March 8th. Presumably it will be a five-round main event.
This is the 2nd time the UFC has booked Gustafsson/Lil’ Nog, but last year this fight was scrapped when Nogueira pulled out with an injury. Thiago Silva replaced him and Gustafsson beat him by unanimous decision in Stockholm, Sweden.
Gustafsson (15-2) is coming off a thrilling title fight loss against Jon Jones at UFC 165, where he inflicted more punishment on the champion than any other challenger Jones has faced. Unfortunately for the Swede, all 3 judges scored the fight for Jones.
Nogueira (21-5) last competed in February at UFC 156 in Las Vegas, where he surprisingly knocked off Rashad Evans by unanimous decision. Lil’ Nog has battled numerous injuries throughout his UFC career, and has fought just 6 times in the past 4 years.
According to White, if Gustafsson beats Nogueira and Jon Jones beats Glover Teixeira, then Gustafsson/Jones 2 will happen later in 2014.
About the author
