Pros react to the UFC Stockholm main event and Alexander Gustafsson retiring

A key light heavyweight scrap between former division title challengers Alexander Gustafsson and Anthony Smith headlined today’s UFC Stockholm event.

Both men had entered tonight’s contest looking to rebound, this after suffering losses to reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones in their most recent octagon appearances.

“Bones” defeated “Alexander Gustafsson via third round knockout at UFC 232, and then made a quick turnaround to defeat Anthony Smith via unanimous decision at UFC 235.

Prior to his second career setback to Jones, ‘The Mauler’ had reeled off two straight wins over perennial contenders Glover Teixeira and Anthony Smith.

Meanwhile, prior to falling short in his bid to dethrone Jones this past March, “Lionheart” had strung together three wins in a row which included victories over Rashad Evans, Shogun Rua and Volkan Oezdemir.

Tonight’s UFC Stockholm main event was a competitive battle which saw both men land some solid punches, kicks and takedowns.

After a good opening two rounds from Anthony Smith, Alexander Gustafsson appeared to be gaining momentum after scoring a takedown late in round three.

The Swede looked to take the fight to the canvas once again in round four, but Smith scored a sweep and wound up taking top position for himself. From there, ‘Lionheart’ was able to get off some good punches and elbows before ultimately locking in a fight-ending rear naked choked.

Moments after his submission loss to Smith, Alexander Gustafsson took to mic where he announced his retirement from the sport of mixed martial arts.

“What can I say… The show is over guys.” Gus said while putting down his gloves and proceeding to walk out of the octagon. Get more on the Swede’s retirement here.

Check out how the pros reacted to tonight’s UFC Stockholm main event, as well as the retirement of Alexander Gustafsson below.

Well calculated @lionheartasmith
Amazing job!

— Jake Ellenberger (@EllenbergerMMA) June 1, 2019

People better start showing this man his respect. Congrats @lionheartasmith 👏🏽👏🏽 #UFCStockholm

— KAMARU USMAN (@USMAN84kg) June 1, 2019

Wow….. @AlexTheMauler just left his gloves in the octagon for the last time. Always been a fan a man. Respect! 🙌🏼🙌🏼

— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) June 1, 2019

Wow a little mistake by Gus cost him

— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) June 1, 2019

Lionheart!!!!!! Fuck ya! #ufc

— Chris Camozzi (@ChrisCamozzi) June 1, 2019

Honestly I don’t believe you but if you’re serious, thank you for everything. You held the division to a standard and made us better. Go kick ass with that Family.

— BONY (@JonnyBones) June 1, 2019

“Honestly I don’t believe you (Alexander Gustafsson), but if you’re serious, thank you for everything. You held the division to a standard and made us better. Go kick ass with that Family.” – Jon Jones

Thank you for all the memories @AlexTheMauler! What an amazing career 👏🏼 #Legend https://t.co/BIwZEIsFIo

— bjpenndotcom (@bjpenndotcom) June 1, 2019

Gus is one of the greatest to ever fight at 205. He is fighting at a time when 2 of the 🐐’s of all time happen to fight at 205.

— Ian McCall (@Unclecreepymma) June 1, 2019

Congrats on a magnificent career @AlexTheMauler Incredible fighter and a true gentleman.

— michael (@bisping) June 1, 2019

What was your reaction to tonight’s UFC Stockholm main event fight between Alexander Gustafsson and Anthony Smith? Sound off in the comments section PENN Nation!