It has been a year since Alexander Gustafsson put his gloves on the famous shelf. The loss against Anthony Smith was his second in a row and the fact is that Sweden's fixed star in fighting has not won since 2017. He also has only two victories in the last five years.
But Gustafsson prefers to tone down this fact.
- I have competed one match a year, that is where we are. Do it again, do it right, he says briefly about the starting point.
Internationally, the controversial Conor McGregor has made pausing and comebacking an art form, and made huge money on the attention.
In comparison with him, Gustafsson is a beginner on returns, as he now leaves the peace with the family and takes on the Brazilian former world champion Fabricio Werdum.
"Have a contract, so know what I earn"Also in a new weight class: heavyweight.
- It is a tough industry, we do not run after a ball or a puck, but we hit each other on the mouth. You have good and bad days, and a bad match for us is vital.
How much is love for the sport and pure livelihood?
- That clearly goes hand in hand, but it is very sacrificial. Had I not had the love of the sport, it would not have been worth it.
Do you know what you will earn from the match financially?
- I have a contract, so I know what I earn, says Alexander Gustafsson secretly.