Jimi Manuwa is currently on the UFC's European tour as part of his media commitment in hyping up the UFC Fight Night 37 event where he will clash with Sweden's Alexander Gustaffson. The british light-heavyweight has exploded into the UFC's top tier, pulverising Kyle Kingsbury and then battering both Cyrille Diabete and Ryan Jimmo on way to injury stoppages.
Gustaffson (15-2) has been a subject of some controversy, as many thought the Swede should have been awarded the nod in his title fight against reigning champion Jon Jones. Revgear sponsored fighter, 14-0 Jimi Manuwa is a wrecking machine that cares little for reputation. He will be coming into this fight eager to perform in his home town and country. The argument can be made that Manuwa has never faced competition like Gustaffson before, but 'Poster Boy' has mangled all other competitors on his way to this fight.
Come March the 8th, Gustaffson will be seeking to out-range and outland Jimi, whilst the London fighter will be coming forward with his stapled explosive striking. Look for Manuwa to try and land his heavy, devastating leg kicks on the rangy Gustaffson. The Swedish contender is by far the most skilled opponent Manuwa has faced, but only failings (extremely rare though they are) seem to be that he sometimes can't maintain his favoured distance (Jones, Shogun, Silva.) As a rangy light-heavyweight himself, Manuwa should be able to make use of this and land some heavy shots to the Swedish Stalwart.
All in all, this is going to be a fantastic fight. The betting odds favour 'Gus', but Jimi 'Poster Boy' Manuwa is a heavy-hitting wrecking ball that took a fight he didn't have to and will never under perform, especially in his home town of London. 'The mauler' will have to approach this fight with all the respect Manuwa deserves, or he may see himself get 'mauled.'
Written by Craig Thomas Boyle 
