Reports indicate that a prominent former UFC fighter is set to transition into the sport of boxing, marking a significant career update.
Darren Till`s UFC career concluded with a noticeable decline, drawing considerable criticism despite his earlier status as a highly promoted star. Following a significant hiatus, the former welterweight title contender revitalized his career in 2025 by venturing into boxing. Till has since built an impressive boxing record and is now pursuing major matchups, including potential fights against figures like Jake Paul. It now appears another former UFC competitor may soon emulate `The Gorilla`s` crossover success.
Alexander Gustafsson Reportedly in Discussions with Misfits Boxing
Alexander Gustafsson enjoyed a distinguished UFC career, despite never securing a championship title. Known as ‘The Mauler,’ he amassed 18 UFC bouts, consistently ranking as a top contender in the light heavyweight division for many years. Gustafsson`s memorable clashes with Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier solidified his legacy as one of the greatest fighters never to win UFC gold. Now, he seems poised to embark on a new career path.
According to a report by Swedish publication Frontkick.online, Gustafsson is in “advanced negotiations” with Misfits Boxing, the same organization where Darren Till has found considerable success. The report further suggests that a key part of these negotiations involves Gustafsson potentially facing another former UFC veteran in the ring.
The formidable Swedish fighter initially retired from MMA in 2019 but returned a year later, competing twice more before his release from the UFC in December 2024. After signing with the GFL, and with the promotion`s initial events being indefinitely canceled, a move to boxing appears to be his next venture.
Jon Jones Previously Acknowledged Alexander Gustafsson as His Toughest Opponent
The initial encounter between Alexander Gustafsson and Jon Jones at UFC 165 is widely regarded as one of the most epic title bouts in UFC history. During a Q&A session in June, Jones himself acknowledged that `The Mauler` challenged him like no other opponent, singling out Gustafsson as his toughest foe.
“He was my best opponent, yeah. What was it, Switzerland or Sweden? Yeah, Sweden. He really pushed me and was the only person to take me down in the UFC. Man, he cut me open and made me dig really hard.”
Jones ultimately defeated Gustafsson decisively in their UFC 232 rematch for the vacant light heavyweight championship.
