Alexander Gustafsson vs. Anthony Johnson: Keys to Victory for Both Fighters

At UFC on Fox 14, Alexander Gustafsson will face Anthony Johnson for the opportunity to do battle against the light heavyweight champion, Jon Jones. The epic matchup will take place in Gustafsson’s home country of Sweden this Saturday night, and the 28-year-old has exuded nothing but excitement in his quest to contend for the title once more.

Per the UFC, he stated, "This is going to be an epic event. I want more than 30,000 fans to come and witness me win on January 24. Then I’m going to go and get the title! My journey back to the top starts now."

However, since his light heavyweight debut, Johnson has been on a tear, destroying everyone in his path. He boasts heavy hands and is more than capable of downing any opponent he faces.

Both fighters’ keys to victory are found in the maximization of their strengths (Gustafsson’s range/versatility versus Johnson’s power), and at UFC on Fox 14, they will attempt to win in dramatic fashion for a chance to attain UFC gold.

Alexander Gustafsson

USA TODAY Sports

Gustafsson is the taller opponent (6’5”) and possesses the range to make this a difficult matchup for his foe. Given his opponent's punching power, it is essential that the Swede “stick and move.” The utilization of his jab and ability to remain on the outside may keep Johnson at bay.

In that, Gustafsson may ultimately be able to outpoint his opponent on his way to a decision victory in the end. Regarding his ability to remain elusive, according to Dave Doyle of Yahoo Sports, the Swede stated:

"

I'm a better fighter than [Johnson], I've got too many tools for him. He's a hell of a force, but he's one-dimensional. Doesn't move a lot. Comes in hard, throws the left kick, left hook, straight right … not afraid of his wrestling at all. I'll cover my face up, not going to let him hit me. I need to bring my A-game and I will.

"

If Gustafsson can effectively employ his reach and confuse Johnson, a win over his “one-dimensional” opponent may be within reach.

Anthony Johnson

Jeff Chiu/Associated Press

Johnson is currently enjoying an eight-fight win streak and has revitalized his career by moving to light heavyweight, where he remains undefeated. He is an extremely heavy-handed fighter who boasts 18 victories, with 12 knockouts. He has beaten MMA veterans in Phil Davis and former heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski, and at UFC on Fox 12, Johnson thoroughly knocked out the formidable Antonio Rogerio Nogueira.

The utilization of his power may overwhelm Gustafsson and lead Johnson to an early victory. The 30-year-old has never been knocked out, and he claims to be unaffected by fighting on his opponent’s home turf. According to Guilherme Cruz of MMA Fighting, Johnson stated:

"

This fight might be on his home turf, but I’m ready to go over to Sweden and prove that I’m the next in the line for the UFC light heavyweight title. I’m not intimidated by fighting in front of Alex’s hometown fans. I’m going to go in there and look for the knockout like I do in all of my fights. I can’t wait for this!

"

Given the tremendous power in his hands, Johnson has the opportunity to end this matchup quickly and stake his claim as the light heavyweight division’s No. 1 contender.

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