After a brief stint in WWE, Gable Steveson, Olympic gold medalist, and two-time NCAA heavyweight champion, has turned his focus back to wrestling. And this has left the world of combat sports brimming with anticipation. After securing the Olympic gold in 2021, Steveson signed with professional wrestling juggernaut, eager to make his mark in the world of sports entertainment. WWE capitalized on his wrestling pedigree, positioning him as a future star, and he made a few appearances on NXT and RAW. Gable’s journey in WWE although was an exciting chapter in his career, was far from what many had envisioned. 

Steveson’s decision to return to the University of Minnesota for one final season has sent ripples through the wrestling community. But now, another layer to his return is starting to garner attention. Steveson’s potential in the realm of MMA has created a buzz not just among fans, but also among renowned UFC stars.

UFC champion Jon Jones predicts Gable Steveson’s future in MMA after his return to wrestling 

Being under contract with WWE, Steveson’s dreams of a return to collegiate wrestling were repeatedly shut down. His ambition to be a part of the University of Iowa was thwarted by circumstances beyond his control. For two seasons, he was caught between the worlds of WWE and amateur wrestling, unable to fully pursue his passion for NCAA glory. Now free from WWE’s constraints, Steveson is back with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, aiming to achieve his third NCAA Heavyweight Championship.

While Steveson has become a household name in wrestling, the allure of MMA is undeniable. And as his potential in the MMA world garnered attention, UFC legend Jon Jones entered the picture to make a bold prediction. In his post-fight UFC 309 press conference, the UFC Heavyweight kingpin was asked about the young wrestling prodigy who had even trained with ‘Bones’ at Jackson Acoma in his preparations against Stipe Miocic. The consensus MMA GOAT did not hold back in his assessment of Steveson’s capabilities. He stated, “He’s gonna be scary. He’s gonna be very scary when he decides to do MMA.”

Training together further helped Jones to gather a better idea of Gable’s true potential. And reflecting the same Jones continued to add, “He knows how to make men appear very weak. Me being one of ’em.” For Jones, the question isn’t whether the 24-year-old will become a champion, but when. ‘Bones’ stated, “When he learns how to box and a little about jiu-jitsu, it’s not a matter of if he’ll become a UFC Champion, it’s when he’ll be a UFC Champion…He’s an asset”. Such high praise from a fighter of Jones’ caliber underscores the immense promise Steveson holds, especially considering his background in Olympic wrestling and his physical prowess. 

Jones reiterated his belief in Steveson as he added, “Whoever has him are going to be very blessed to have him” acknowledging Steveson’s potential to disrupt the MMA world. Moreover, Jones is not the only UFC athlete who is assured of Steveson’s shining career in MMA.

Bo Nickal calls for Steveson to join MMA ahead of UFC 309 win

Bo Nickal, fresh off his dominant victory at UFC 309 against Paul Craig, also has his eyes set on the future of mixed martial arts. He too wants the wrestling phenom Gable Steveson to join the octagon. In an interview ahead of UFC 309, the Penn State alumni expressed his hope that more elite wrestlers, like Steveson, will bring their exceptional skill sets to MMA. 

Nickal stated, “I think American collegiate style wrestling would take over the sport in short order” As one of the most accomplished wrestlers in NCAA history himself, Nickal understands the potential impact a wrestler of Steveson’s caliber could have on the MMA landscape. The middleweight contender himself is a wrestler turned MMA phenom and proved his worth in the UFC realm.

Nickal’s rise itself proves that elite wrestling can be a game-changer in MMA, his enthusiasm for Steveson’s potential is no surprise. Now, as Steveson eyes his next career move, fans would await to learn if Jones’ and Nickal’s advice would have an impact on his decision. Where do you think the wrestling prodigy will land next? Tell us in the comment section below!