The rematch between Jon Jones and Alexander Gustaffson will be happening next as confirmed by UFC President Dana White after the back-and-forth discussion between the two camps.
Initially, the UFC management released a statement about the Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson rematch for August 30th, but no venue has been specified. Reports say "The Mauler" already accepted the offer pending "Bones'" agreement. "Bones", however, declared that he wants to fight Daniel Cormier instead.
The UFC President finally cleared the air in a Wednesday interview with The Albuquerque Journal.
"Yeah, definitely. Gustafsson's next in line," White confirmed. "Even Cormier said, 'Listen, I hope this whole things works out for me and I get the shot, but even I believe that Gustafsson deserves the next shot.'"
"(Gustafsson is) the No. 1 contender, he's waited for this rematch, and (Cormier) even agrees," he added.
The UFC President also criticized Jon Jones for his recent antics, particularly about how he is becoming too picky about his opponents.
For him, "Bones" should "start acting like a champion."
"You're the champion, you're the pound-for-pound best guy in the world, and he says he wants to be known as the best ever," White continued. "Well, you don't turn down opponents. You know what I mean? You've got to fight all the best in the world, anyway. You're the man; everybody's gunning for you."
Meanwhile, "The Mauler" voiced out his own thoughts regarding the potential Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustafsson rematch.
The Swedish challenger further urged the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion to finally step up to the plate and agree to fight him.
"Jon 'Bones' Jones, be a man, be a champ and sign that bout agreement and stop running," Gustafsson said in a written statement. "Keep in mind that after I beat you and become the champ I might be doing the same to you when you chase me for a rematch, as a revenge for not accepting my challenge."
