Werdum submits Gustafsson in 1st round at UFC Fight Night
Former UFC heavyweight champion Fabricio Werdum finished Alexander Gustafsson with an armbar at 2:30 of the first round at UFC Fight Night on Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Werdum secured a takedown a minute and a half into the fight after a brief exchange standing up. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu ace immediately looked to sink in a rear-naked choke, but he instead transitioned to an armbar. Gustafsson did a good job of maintaining his grip and defending against Werdum's attempt for a few moments. But after a couple of adjustments, Werdum locked in the submission, forcing the Swede to tap.
It's Werdum's first victory since November 2017, and he entered the bout riding a two-fight skid. The 42-year-old, who's one of the most accomplished heavyweights in MMA history, held the UFC title from June 2015 to May 2016.
Gustafsson ended his retirement to debut at heavyweight against Werdum. "The Mauler" walked away from the sport following a submission loss to Anthony Smith in May 2019. He has now dropped three straight bouts, including a light heavyweight title rematch against Jon Jones.
Gustafsson has challenged for the 205-pound belt three times since 2013.