A distinguished former UFC contender is reportedly preparing to transition into professional boxing, marking a significant turn in his career path.
Darren Till`s journey in the UFC concluded with a challenging period, drawing considerable criticism despite his earlier status as a promoted star. However, following a prolonged hiatus, the former welterweight title challenger has successfully revitalized his fighting career in 2025. Till is now actively seeking high-profile boxing matches, including potential bouts against figures like Jake Paul, after building an impressive record in the squared circle.
Another prominent former UFC fighter now appears poised to embark on a similar trajectory to `The Gorilla` in the near future.
Alexander Gustafsson Reportedly In Advanced Talks with Misfits Boxing
Alexander Gustafsson enjoyed a celebrated career within the UFC, even though the ultimate championship gold eluded him. `The Mauler` competed in 18 UFC bouts, standing as a prominent figure in the light heavyweight division for many years. Gustafsson`s epic clashes with Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters never to win a UFC title. Now, it seems he is setting his sights on a new chapter in combat sports.
A report from the Swedish publication Frontkick.online indicates that Gustafsson is currently engaged in advanced discussions with Misfits Boxing, the same promotion where Darren Till has found considerable success. The report further notes that part of these negotiations includes plans for the former UFC title challenger to compete against another veteran of the Octagon.
The towering Swede initially announced his retirement from MMA in 2019, only to return the following year for two more fights before being granted his release from the UFC in December 2024. Although Gustafsson had signed with GFL, the indefinite cancellation of the promotion`s initial events seemingly opened the door for this potential boxing transition.
Jon Jones Once Called Alexander Gustafsson His Toughest Opponent
Alexander Gustafsson`s initial encounter with Jon Jones at UFC 165 is widely regarded as one of the greatest title fights in the history of the promotion. `The Mauler` challenged `Bones` in a manner unseen before, with Jones himself referring to his former rival as his toughest opponent during a Q&A session in June.
“He was my best opponent, yeah. What was it, Switzerland or Sweden? Yeah, Sweden. Yeah, he was my best opponent, he really pushed me and he was the only person to take me down in the UFC. Man, he cut me open and made me dig really hard.”
Jones went on to decisively defeat Gustafsson in their UFC 232 rematch, securing the vacant light heavyweight title.
