Exclusive: Alexander Gustafsson talks about respecting Jon Jones 'too much' and more before UFC 232
Alexander Gustafsson is set to face Jon Jones when the two will face each other at UFC 232 this weekend. Gustafsson has been outspoken about his last fight with Jones and has made no secret of the fact that he feels he was the actual winner the last time the two met.
With very little time to go before the two meet each other in the Octagon, Alexander Gustafsson had a lot to say when I got the chance to pose a few questions before him thanks to Sony.
Q. You've been vocal about how you were the actual winner in your last bout against Jon Jones. You are finally getting an opportunity to set the record straight at UFC 232 -- Are you feeling the pressure of having to prove everything you said now?
AG: "I’m very fortunate to have a third time to fight for the belt. I’m fighting Jon, it’s the biggest fight of my life.
I respected him too much the first time we fought. I’m not going to give him the respect I gave him the first time. I will show the world you can beat the man that’s never been beaten."
Q. You have not fought in the Octagon since your last fight in May of 2017 -- Has the comeback process after such a long time away from the Octagon a difficult one for you, or has it allowed you to return fresher?
AG: "I don’t believe in ring rust at all. The layoff has just been good for me. The training during this layoff has just been good for me.
I’m a different fighter today than I was 1-1/2 years ago and yes this is my time. I feel this is the right time fight should happen for me to prove things to myself more than anyone else.
I’ve never been this right in my life and yes, I’m feeling no pressure at all. I’m just enjoying every second of it. It’s a dream come true and I’m going to enjoy every second of the fight. Five rounds for me these days is not a problem at all. I’m ready for 10 rounds."
Q. What's next for you after the Jon Jones fight?
AG: "That’s for Dana to decide. I will be prepared for anyone who comes up."
Alexander Gustafsson is sure about his fitness and has also not held back any of his feelings with regards to Jones and his recent controversy. The fighter feels he is ready, and it is now up to the fans to find out.
Will Gustafsson prove to be the better fighter once and for all, or will Jones hand him a second defeat?
Tune in to Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD this Sunday to catch all the action from UFC 232.