Andreas Gustafsson has been released from the UFC roster after withdrawing from his scheduled fight against Daniil Donchenko due to a heart condition. The Swedish fighter has been dealing with atrial fibrillation and recurring tachycardia, requiring him to halt training camp and undergo multiple medical examinations. UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby informed Gustafsson of his release but left the door open for a return if he receives full medical clearance from his own physicians as well as UFC doctors and athletic commissions.
Andreas Gustafsson has been released from the UFC after a serious heart condition forced him to withdraw from a scheduled bout against Daniil Donchenko, the promotion confirmed on May 31, 2026.
Gustafsson, 35, carried a 12-3 record into what would have been his next octagon appearance, representing Sweden under the Vasteras Fight Club banner. The orthodox grappler had built a reputation as one of the more complete fighters in his division, averaging an eye-catching 6.19 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy rate of 71 percent and 5.82 significant strikes landed per minute. His preparation for the Donchenko fight was halted when he was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and recurring tachycardia, conditions that required him to stop training camp and submit to multiple medical examinations. UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby delivered the news of his release, though he indicated Gustafsson could earn his way back to the roster if he obtains full medical clearance from his personal physicians, UFC doctors, and the relevant athletic commissions.
Donchenko, the 24-year-old orthodox fighter who would have been Gustafsson's opponent, holds a 15-2 record and has averaged 7.15 significant strikes landed per minute, making him one of the more active strikers on the roster. He now finds himself without a scheduled opponent as a result of the withdrawal.
Why it matters
- Gustafsson's release is health-driven rather than performance-related, and the door for a return remains open under specific medical conditions
- The situation leaves Donchenko's matchmaking in flux, with no replacement opponent announced
- Gustafsson's output numbers — particularly his takedown rate and striking accuracy — would make him a meaningful addition to any roster card if cleared to compete
