Alexander Gustafsson separated Jimi Manuwa (previously undefeated) from consciousness at 1 minute and 18 seconds of the second round by way of strikes. A knee set up the final combination which consisted of strong right uppercuts from the number one contender.

In his post fight interview Gustafsson assured the waiting world he was the right viking to usurp the throne, patiently waiting for his  chance to defeat 205 pound king Jon Jones, saying “Jon Jones, I want my title shot again. I’m right here. Whenever you want, man.”

While Alexander Gustafsson’s desire to wear current Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones’ belt is understandable after having dropped a razor-close decision to the champion in their last bout, Jon Jones still faces a formidable challenge in Glover Texeira who will fight for the 205 pound gold next.

Should Jon Jones overcome Texeira, Gustafsson is expected to be the next in line for his shot at Jones’ throne.

Play-by-play

Round 1
Jimi Manuwa makes his way to the cage with the applause of his countrymen. He appears calm, collected, and ready for action. Manuwa is striking himself on the jaw in preparation for the war ahead. Alexander Gustafsson enters into a relatively hushed arena to mixed crowd response. The Swede appears calm for a man with so much to lose.

The bell sounds and the two men find the center of the Octagon. Manuwa strikes first but a follow up comes from Gustafsson in the way of a headkick which falls short, followed by a takedown attempt which is successful. Gustafsson finds himself in half guard, searching for a straight arm lock. Gustafsson is patient, awaiting his opportunity to pass. Shoulder strikes from the Swede to the head of the Brit. Gustafsson covers the mouth and postures back, then extends forward, attempting to pass but being pushed into the open guard of Manuwa.

A short right hand to the body and the two disengage. The Swede attempts to take the back but is pushed off. A leg kick lands for Gustafsson. Gustafsson misses an uppercut but scores with a knee to the body of the Brit. Manuwa counters the uppercut with a leg kick and the horn sounds the end of the round.

Round 2
The second stanza opens and the two once more find themselves feeling one another out. The Swede is calculating range then swoops in with a right uppercut. Manuwa appears to have been poked in the eye and the Mark Goddard calls a halt to the action while the doctor checks the Brits eyes. The action resumes and Gustafsson finds a place for his jab before eating a right hand and a leg kick from Manuwa. Manuwa throws a right hand over the top but that spells the beginning of the end as Gustafsson ducks beneath it and blasts Manuwa with a knee and follow-up uppercuts. Manuwa is out on his feet and tumbling to the mat while the Swede drops several more right hands for good measure securing the TKO victory.

At 1 minute and 18 seconds of the second round the victor by TKO is Alexander ‘The Mauler’ Gustafsson.

MMAViking.com will also be posting post-fight interviews and fight pictures after the event.