Alexander Gustafsson announces retirement following loss to Anthony Smith

Former UFC title challenger Alexander Gustafsson has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts following his loss to Anthony Smith at UFC Stockholm.

The 32-year-old, Gustafsson (18-6 MMA) suffered a fourth round submission loss to Smith in today’s headliner (watch that here).

The loss marked Gustafsson’s second in a row, as he was previously defeated by Jon Jones at UFC 232 via third round knockout.

“What can I say… The show is over guys.” Gustafsson said while putting down his gloves and proceeding to walk out of the octagon.

Gustafsson just took off his gloves.

“What can I say? The show is over, guys.”

And then he put the gloves on the mat and walked away. pic.twitter.com/QY42LFkNzM

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 1, 2019

Alexander Gustafsson will go down as one of the greatest light heavyweight fighters of all time.

‘The Mauler’ finishes his career with an 18-6 record in mixed martial arts, going 10-6 under the UFC banner.

The powerful Swede challenged for the UFC light heavyweight strap on three different occasions, but ultimately came up short to Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier in those contests.

During his illustrious career, Alexander Gustafsson scored notable wins over James Te Huna, Matt Hamill, Vladimir Matyushenko, Thiago Silva, Shogun Rua, Jimi Manuawa, Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira.

Thank you for the memories Gus! It was a pleasure watching you perform inside the octagon.

What was your favorite Alexander Gustafsson fight or memory? Sound off in the comments section PENN Nation!

June 1, 2019