UFC on Fuel 2: 5 Fights for Alexander Gustafsson to Take Next

Alexander Gustafsson did not disappoint his home country of Sweden, as he defeated Thiago Silva in the main event of UFC on Fuel 2. 

Gustafsson was able to use great movement and distance to avoid Silva's strikes while picking his shots. 

The win not only moves Gustafsson up the light heavyweight division, it also positions him closer to a title shot. 

Here are some fights Gustafsson should take that could get him even closer.

Ryan Bader

After two straight losses to Jon Jones and Tito Ortiz, Ryan Bader has bounced back with wins over Jason Brilz and, most recently, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson.

Both Bader and Gustafsson are two of the light heavyweight division's biggest up-and-comers, and they and are looking to reach the same level of success that fellow young gun Jon Jones has reached. 

A win over Bader would prove that Gustafsson is indeed ready to challenge the top wrestlers of the division. 

Lyoto Machida

If Gustafsson needs a tough fighter to prove he's ready for a title shot, Lyoto Machida may be the man for the job. 

Machida is a former light heavyweight champion who is one of the most difficult fighters to prepare for. 

Gustafsson has the length and movement to give Machida trouble, but the only problem that is he will have to be able to actually hit him. 

Antonio Rogerio Nogueria

"Little Nog" was originally scheduled to meet Gustafsson yesterday, but a knee injury forced him out of the bout. 

Nogueira is 8-2 in his last 10 bouts and has wins over Tito Ortiz, Alistair Overeem and Dan Henderson. 

Nogueira is a vet who could surprise Gustafsson with his boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Dan Henderson

Although we know Dan Henderson is holding out for a title shot, a matchup between himself and Gustafsson could set up a No. 1 contender's bout in the light heavyweight division. 

Henderson would be Gustafsson's toughest challenge to date, as he brings his high level wrestling and knockout power to the bout. 

Henderson is also one of the toughest fighters to stop in MMA history. He's only been submitted three times in his 37-fight MMA career.

The Loser of Jon Jones vs. Rashad Evans

In a little less than a week, Jon Jones will defend his UFC light heavyweight title against Rashad Evans. 

Unless the two bitter rivals have an immediate rematch following the fight or the loser gets knocked out or submitted badly, the loser may not have to climb too far up the ladder to get a rematch.

A fight with Gustafsson will provide a tough challenge for either man, while Gustafsson will get the most high-profile fight of his career.