Just as all good things come to an end, so did Gable Steveson’s unstoppable run. Most expected him to yet again pulverize his opponent in the NCAA finals. Yet it was Captain America Hendrickson who emerged victorious in their mat classic on Sunday. But while Hendrickson is taking in the glory of being champion, Gable isn’t one to let himself be discouraged. After all, if we have learned anything from his gold-laden career, is that he always bounces back. But what is next for the Golden Gable? Well, for that we need to rewind.

For years, Gable Steveson was untouchable. The Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA champion had built a legacy that seemed invincible—until now. In a shocking turn of events, Steveson faced a rare defeat against Wyatt Hendrickson by a score of 5-4, shaking the wrestling world. But if anyone thought this was the end of his story, his latest message proves otherwise.

Fresh off the loss, Steveson took to his Instagram and posted a picture with his NCAA trophy and penned down his feelings in the form of a caption. Thanking Gopher Wrestling, the Minnesota star started with a sarcastic sentence, “From an 18-year-old kid to now 24 years old (or 30 years old as some would say lol),” as Steveson has been trolled for staying in collegiate wrestling for 6 years.

Gable further added, “Bumps in the road are going to happen; that’s what makes sports so crazy! But we live for moments like these and I am just fine!!” he wrote, assuring fans that this setback won’t define him. Instead, his focus has always been on something bigger—elevating the sport of wrestling. “In the end, wins and losses will never define what I tried to do… The attraction, viewership, and showmanship always meant the most to me,” the wrestling star added to his message.

Steveson’s career speaks for itself. A dominant force on the mat, he boasted an undefeated NCAA record before his brief retirement in 2022. But the itch to return never faded, and in 2024, he came back to give it “one last go around” for the University of Minnesota. His impact? Undeniable. From thrilling last-second victories to electrifying celebrations, Steveson made wrestling must-watch entertainment.

Despite the loss, his words hint at unfinished business. “See you again! Gable, Out…”—a classic mic-drop moment that leaves fans speculating. Steveson’s return was more than competition—it was a tribute to his roots and a final chapter in his historic run. But for Gable Steveson, greatness was never just about the scoreboard—it was about the lasting mark he left on the sport.

Gable Steveson’s legacy beyond wins and losses

For Gable Steveson, wrestling has never been just about medals and records—it’s about leaving a lasting impact. While he has explored different avenues, from WWE to potential MMA ventures, his heart has always belonged to the wrestling mat. His recent return to collegiate wrestling wasn’t just about competing; it was about giving the sport the spotlight it deserves.

As he put it, “There was always this itch to give y’all one last go-around, and I’m glad I could come back.” What sets Steveson apart isn’t just his dominance, but how he redefined wrestling’s entertainment value. From backflips to major wins to thrilling last-second takedowns, he made wrestling a spectacle. He didn’t just compete. He put on a show, drawing in fans who may have never watched the sport otherwise.

His influence extends beyond statistics. He’s inspired a generation, changed how wrestling is viewed, and ensured that his presence in the sport won’t be forgotten. Even UFC legend Daniel Cormier couldn’t help but admire his greatness: “Anytime I get to watch Gable Steveson, listen, man, it’s the best time of the year for me.”

No matter where his career takes him next, one thing is certain—Steveson’s legacy in wrestling is far greater than wins and losses. Is he eyeing another comeback? A transition to professional wrestling or MMA? Whatever’s next, one thing is certain: Gable Steveson is far from done.