Two-time UFC title challenger Alexander Gustafsson has signed a new multifight deal with the promotion and expects his next fight to take place "very soon."
The Swedish light heavyweight signed his new deal while in Los Angeles this week. He announced the agreement via social media on Thursday.
"While others are talking about retirement, I just signed my new deal with the UFC today," Gustafsson wrote on Instagram. "I am grateful, excited, and I will be fighting very soon."
The "retirement" inclusion may have been a dig at current light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, who has said he will retire by March 2019. Cormier is moving up in weight this summer to challenge heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 226.
Nima Safapour, Gustafsson's agent, told ESPN that both parties were happy with the new deal.
"This is the most lucrative deal of Alex's career," Safapour said. "And one of the best deals in the space. Both the UFC and Alex are happy. It is a good deal for everyone. [UFC legal counsel] Hunter Campbell is a solid operator. We are excited to continue to grow with the UFC as partners and collaborators. The title is within reach now more than ever."
Gustafsson (18-4) hasn't fought since last May, partially because of a shoulder injury. He is riding a two-fight win streak.
Last month, Gustafsson told ESPN his next fight "must be for an interim title." The 31-year-old isn't thrilled with Cormier's decision to move up in weight, as it prevents him from claiming the undisputed 205-pound title for now.
Gustafsson has come up short in two title bids, although both fights were very close. He dropped a unanimous decision to Jon Jones in September 2015 in what is widely considered one of the best fights in UFC history. He fell short against against Cormier in October 2015 by split decision.