UFC Fight Night 153 Results: Popular fighter shockingly announces retirement, 42-second head kick knockout

#5.Alexander Gustafsson (18-5-0) vs. Anthony Smith (31-14-0) (Light Heavyweight)

Gustafsson vs. Smith.

The main event was billed to be a highly engaging contest between two valiant former Light Heavyweight title contenders.

The Lion Heart showed more vigour and inventiveness, however, as he managed to finish The Mauler with a rear naked choke.

Gustafsson was leading on the scorecards until the finish happened as the Swedish stand-up specialist had 73 total strikes. Smith got in 51 total landed strikes and may have narrowly edged past Gustafsson in the first two rounds. Gustafsson took the third round before falling victim to an RNC.

Gustafsson attempted a takedown in the fourth round but instead was taken down to the mat in the process. Smith landed some strikes and forced Gustafsson to shrivel.

Smith was clinical as soon as he sensed an opening as he locked in the RNC to get a massive win.

Result: Alexander Gustafsson def. Anthony Smith via submission (Read naked choke) (2:38, Round 4)

In an unexpected turn of events, Gustafsson drew curtains on his impressive MMA career as he removed his gloves, placed them on the mat and said, "What can I say? The show is over, guys.”

An unforgettable show indeed.

The Mauler may not have won the big one in the UFC but he will go down as one of the most likeable fighters to have ever graced the Octagon. Without a doubt, Gus will go down as one of the best fighters to have never won the world title. We wish him all the very best for all his future endeavours.

“The show is over”, Alexander Gustafson lays down his gloves in the octagon and retired. He’s been a Swedish hero for many years, I’ll never forget seeing his first fight in the Globe Arena as a screaming fan. Thank you for the fights, and the inspiration you’ve given us all 🧡 pic.twitter.com/XYGz7SbHBx

— Sebastian Vendel-Martinez (@vendelmartinez) June 1, 2019