Alexander Gustafsson Targeting Early Fall Return To Action

Alexander Gustafsson earned a trademark win when he defeated Thiago Silva earlier this year in his native country of Sweden. Since that time, “The Mauler” has been sitting on the sidelines, healing up what he calls a “minor” hand injury.

“I never broke my hand, really, I just had some small injuries that I have been rehabbing,” said Gustafsson, during a recent interview on UFC Tonight. “It is all good. I’m hoping after the summer, September-October (to return to action).”

Gustafsson, just 25 years old, has lost just once in his professional MMA career, as Phil Davis submitted him back in 2010. After the defeat, Gustafsson seeked out Davis and trained with him, and has since won his last five fights – two via submission and two by TKO.

“I was 9-0 when I fought Phil and I thought I was a big shot,” Gustafsson said. “It brought me back to the ground. It was a learning experience for me and I finally understand what it takes to be an athlete on that level.”

The man atop the UFC’s light heavyweight division right now is Jon Jones. “Bones” will defend his title against Dan Henderson at UFC 151. Gustafsson offered up his prediction on the fight.

“Jones will win on decision,”Gustafsson said. “The only thing Dan has on Jones is his right hand. If (Jones) can stay away from that, he is going to win the fight (by) decision.”