After achieving every title, how does a champion decide to compete in the ring once more? After all, he’s an Olympic gold medalist and a two-time NCAA champion. Not to mention, he is someone who already had a stint with both the WWE and NFL. But despite all this, the champ has decided to put his wrestling boots on one more time. Still don’t know who we are talking about? It’s the Minnesota Gopher main man and wrestling champion, Gable Steveson.

Just one year before completing his NCAA eligibility, Steveson has decided to return for one more title. With a renewed drive to compete at the highest level, Steveson is back, proving that his hunger for dominance is far from over. “Hopefully this is a spark for us,” he said. His comeback serves to establish a benchmark and motivate his teammates. It is to prove to the world that he remains the undisputed champion of wrestling. And he’s wasted no time proving it—just months into 2025.

Gable Steveson currently holds the No. 1 spot in the 285-pound division, boasting a flawless 10-0 record. As a senior representing Minnesota in the Big Ten conference, he is an unstoppable force in collegiate wrestling. Steveson achieved his 59th straight victory during his fight against Northwestern’s Dirk Morley. His unique approach to wrestling, along with his powerful control, has resulted in a 55-0 dual meet record as well as 40 straight Big Ten victories.

His moves toward Minnesota’s all-time streak record with a 92-2 career record, which shows his continuous pursuit of absolute greatness.

Every match shows that Steveson keeps his place as one of the top wrestlers in NCAA history. “Minnesota has given me everything, and now it’s my turn to give it right back to them,” he said.

On February 7, Steveson faced the No. 4 ranked Ohio State competitor in the 285-pound weight class. He obtained a dominant victory by a major decision of 13-4 to reach 61 consecutive wins. His characteristic professional demeanor gave him the same calmness he has in regular professional settings.

The triumph was more outstanding considering that Nick Feldman had finished his high school career with an impressive 142-17 win-loss record. But beyond focusing on attaining personal glory, Steveson also has his eyes on the success of his team.

Steveson’s winning mindset: Building champions and chasing history

Gable Steveson understands that true excellence in life means creating historical accomplishments beyond personal achievements. He is using his Minnesota return to establish both winning performance records and build Gophers athletic programs into long-term strengths. His attention was drawn to Max McEnelly. The rising talent has shown initial signs of potential.

“Max, I mean, just how impressive is he? Man, he’s getting it done; he’s got a long way to go but I think if he keeps putting pieces together, he’s going to be what Minnesota needs after me,” he said. His dedication to building team chemistry while mentoring new wrestlers will positively impact Minnesota wrestling beyond his wrestling career conclusion.

In college wrestling, the Dan Hodge Trophy stands as the highest achievement, and this season proves to be a fierce battle among contenders. The upcoming battle for top wrestler status at the NCAA stands between potential winners with Steveson in its core. His supreme dominance stands as the key factor in whether he will pull off a trophy return to reach new heights in his wrestling career.

Steveson said, “I want to win the Dan Hodge Trophy. It’s stuff I’ve done before, and I can do it again. Is it harder to repeat? Of course. But I’ve done it once; I can do it twice. But can I do it three times?” The trophy should stay in his possession since he has an unbridgeable lead against his competitors.

With competition heating up and challengers eager to make their mark, can anyone truly stop Steveson from securing yet another historic achievement? Let us know your thoughts on this incredibly talented athlete.