After much speculation it seems both Gustafsson and ‘Rumble’ have agreed to face off after Rumble thanked Gustafsson for accepting the fight via his twitter.
Johnson (18-4) was a standout performer in the upstart world series of fighting following a rocky UFC career where he toiled at the lower divisions trying to make weight before finding his true home at 205 pounds. He quickly returned to the UFC and has put on career best performances against Phil Davis and Antonio Nogueira since.
Initially, Gustafsson (16-2) looked like he wouldn’t take this fight after losing out on a title shot through injury and subsequently the red hot feud between Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones which has been extended into the new year following another injury to the champion. Now, it seems, the Swede has had a change of heart and will take on one of the most dangerous men in the division to earn another shot at the champion.
Gustafsson told MMAFighting last night “I can’t wait to sign the bout agreement my friend and show you what Battlefield feels like”
Although no date has been officially set for the fight as of yet it seems likely to be around the turn of the year. All going to plan, the winner will be perfectly timed and primed to be the next in line to challenge for the light heavyweight strap currently held by Jon Jones.
@AlexTheMauler thank you for accepting this fight. Much respect first and foremost now let's give the fans what… http://t.co/0NAzCgaDyi
— Rumble Johnson (@Anthony_Rumble) September 4, 2014