Gable Steveson: A Rising MMA Star
Gable Steveson is generating tremendous excitement as he enters the MMA world, and there are valid reasons for this hype.
Athletic Prowess
This 25-year-old heavyweight has showcased remarkable athleticism, becoming the youngest American to win a gold medal in wrestling at the 2020 Olympic Games. He is also a two-time NCAA champion. In his nascent MMA career, Steveson boasts an undefeated record of 2-0, with both victories achieved via knockout in just over two minutes combined, including a stunning 15-second knockout in his Dirty Boxing debut.
Expert Opinions
Despite his limited fight experience compared to many heavyweights, UFC legend Matt Brown believes Steveson’s extraordinary athletic abilities could give him an edge against anyone in the division, including the current champion, Tom Aspinall.
Future Title Fights
Brown expressed in an interview on The Fighter vs. The Writer that Steveson could potentially challenge for a championship title today. He remarked, “If he faced Aspinall or Ciryl Gane, I believe he could win. The only significant chance for Aspinall would be through a submission.”
Guidance and Mentorship
Currently, Steveson is not positioned for an immediate title fight, but Brown’s confidence in him is evident. As he continues to make his mark on the regional circuit before eventually joining the UFC, he relies on Jon Jones, a former heavyweight and light heavyweight champion, for guidance and mentorship. Jones is frequently praised for his unique talent and is seen as a significant influence on Steveson’s journey.
Concerns About Role Models
However, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub has voiced concerns regarding Steveson looking up to Jones, citing Jones’ tumultuous career outside the ring. Brown shares this concern, acknowledging that while Steveson has shown promise, he needs strong guidance to navigate the complexities of fame and success.
The Path Ahead for Steveson
As of now, Steveson hasn’t scheduled his next fight, but he remains active in preparation for his MMA journey. Regardless of when it happens, Brown believes Steveson is set to achieve remarkable success, foreseeing a future championship win. He emphasized, “The only limitation is his patience and the opportunities provided by the UFC.” Steveson exemplifies the rare athletic potential needed to excel in the heavyweight division.
