Loss in the Globe for "The Mauler" - ends the career

Alexander Gustafsson and the world lighthouse Anthony Smith had one thing in common before the fight at the UFC gala in Stockholm. Both were set in their latest match against Jon Jones, the light heavyweight champion. And lost.

On Saturday, for the second time in his career, "The Mauler" got himself defeated at home. This time after Smith won in the fourth round via rear-naked choke, a throttle from the opponent's back.

In the interview right after the fight, in the cage in front of 14,319 spectators, Gustafsson shocked the MMA world and announced that he was ending his career.

"Thanks for the show, it's over now," said the Swede, leaving the gloves in the cage.

At the press conference afterwards, SVT Sport asked if the career is really over now.

- Yes, it's been an adventure but now it's over.

- I don't have it in me anymore. I am much better than what I showed here today. It has been an incredible journey and I am very grateful to have been able to form a life thanks to this sport. It's been up and down, but it's a sport and overall I've had a really good time.

Gustafsson had a massive backing from the crowd before the match, but the fight started waiting and the mood subsided. It was obvious that there was mutual respect for the opponent's impact.

The Swede remained passive and defended himself most of the opponent's attacks rather than go on the offensive himself.

In the third round, the tempo was turned up and "The Mauler" seemed to get started. At the end of the round, he took his opponent down to the ground. In the fourth round he tried to do the same, but this time Smith turned on the steak.

"Lionheart" spun around and grabbed Gustafsson's back. From there, he was able to win via throttle 2.38 into the fourth round.

"The Mauler" now finishes the career with a match record of 18 wins, including eleven on knock, and six losses.

The thoughts of quitting have been there ever since the loss in the title match against Jon Jones at the end of 2018.

- I'm not doing this for money, but because I want to be the best. If I can't be that way ... then that's what it is.

- I have been training hard and felt relaxed and ready for this fight. But that wasn't enough. If I do not have it left in me, there is no point in continuing.