Alexander Gustafsson

By FCF Staff

Despite the recent exchanges between Daniel Cormier and Ryan Bader, it looks as though Alexander Gustafsson could be the first man to challenge the newly minted champ.

Cormier won the vacant light-heavyweight title at UFC 187 last month, by submitting Anthony Johnson in the third round. The latter stopped Gustafsson in January to secure a title fight with Jon Jones, but the renowned fighter was stripped of the title in April, following his arrest for a hit-and-run charge.

Since Bader and Cormier have been having words, prior and after UFC 187, the consensus was that a bout between the two would be next. In the latest episode of “UFC Tonight”, however, UFC President Dana White said the promotion is “possibly” looking at Gustafsson for a title shot.

Gustasfsson faced Jones in September, 2013, and although he lost the bout by unanimous decision, many believe he provided “Bones” his toughest challenge to date.

“The Mauler” was scheduled to fight Glover Teixeira on June 20th, but Gustafsson was forced to withdraw due to injury.