Obviously, Gustafsson had in mind the current champion in his weight 39-year-old Daniel Cormier, who repeatedly stressed that he would hang gloves up until his fortieth.
Cormier replied:
"Alex, what exactly did you achieve in your career? I deserve the right to leave the sport at the top. Your greatest achievements are two defeats in close battles. Congratulations on signing a new contract, but now go out and fight. It's been two years now, stop sitting in social networks."
Joh Jones did not stay aside:
"I do not like Cormier, but I enjoyed it. This is very funny. Alex, next time act like a tough guy in the championship rounds."
Gustafsson claimed for the championship belt twice, but was defeated in very competitive matches with Jones and Cormier.