July 23rd will see the return of “The Mauler” as he takes on Nikita “The Miner” Krylov. With an almost two year layoff, Alexander Gustafsson has been booked to fight several times, but due to a string of bad luck hasn’t stepped foot in the cage since he took on former Heavyweight champ Fabricio Werdum. Nikita has been more active during this time and is currently ranked #11 at Light Heavyweight.
Alexander Gustafsson
Gus is a two-time title challenger at LHW and, with a win, will look to get himself back into contention. After a brief flirtation with Heavyweight, Alex decides he’ll return to the place he’s been making his name and putting on so many notable displays. Holding a professional record of 18-7, “The Mauler” has been a household name since his promotional debut way back in 2009. His only losses coming to either former title challengers or former champions. The Swede is right up there in the best of Light Heavyweight conversation.
Known for his striking, which is crisp and precise, Alex uses his 79in reach to his advantage and sets up the bigger shots so well. An absolute dream to watch when on form. You only have to look at his KO win over the current Champ Glover Teixeira to see. Winning 11 by KO/TKO, he’s always a danger on the feet. Holding a Purple belt in BJJ, Gus can also tangle on the ground, making him a dangerous night for all. At 35, Alex will look to put on an impressive show and once again challenge for gold.
Nikita Krylov
Fighting twice since his opponent’s last outing. Krylov will have no ring rust when July comes. Losing his last two against Magomed Ankalaev and Paul Craig. Krylov is not to be overlooked and is dangerous wherever the fight goes. His durability and grinding style makes him a nuisance to any potential opponents. Now in his second UFC stint, the Ukrainian has been facing all killer opponents since returning. Taking on a title challenger, a then future champion, the current champion, and three red hot prospects.
Only 30-years-old, Nikita is just hitting his prime, and with a win against Gus, he can put his name into LHW contention. With a record of 27-9, Krylov is a finisher, with only one of his wins seeing the judges. 11 KO/TKO’s and 15 submissions. Nikita is must-watch MMA, giving his all bell to bell. Looking to strike gold, can “The Miner” upset the return of a fan favourite and set himself up for a big push?
The Event
Taking place on July 23rd, this event will likely be in London. With several British stars already hinting at potential opponents, this card could be shaping up to be a card of the year contender. After March’s London card, there is no wonder fighters want to get their name on it.
Will Alex return with a bang, or can Krylov play spoils and ruin the return of ”The Mauler”?
Follow me on Twitter at @LHart2222 and follow us at Combat Sports UK for more exclusive content!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
