Most fans and
pundits had already written Alexander Gustafsson off before his first
championship fight with Jon Jones. Just another victim to be fed to
Jones, and coming off a lackluster win over Shogun Rua did little to
inspire confidence in his chances. That fight turned out to be one of
the greatest - and most competitive - title fights the sport has ever
seen. A similar lack of faith in Gustafsson was present this time
around. Questions about his mental state arose after a devastating loss
to Anthony Johnson and many were quick to point out that his most
impressive performance came in a losing effort to Jones. Cormier's title
reign up to this point is also defined by a loss - his loss to the
former, and in the minds of many, rightful champion. Cormier
undoubtedly came into this fight intent on proving himself the true
Light Heavyweight champion. Considering the performance he put on, it's
hard to argue with that.
