Gable Steveson is back on the mat. The wrestling world is going crazy about it! Cause, why not? The Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA champion has announced his return to collegiate wrestling; isn’t that something to be thinking about! Well, this reignited excitement among fans and sparked debates among critics that are going out of hand. Numerous questions arise: For someone who has already reached the pinnacle of success, why come back?
For Steveson, according to him, the answer is simple—unfinished business and a chance to give fans what they deserve. The news of his return broke in October 2024. It sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. Steveson, who had shifted gears to explore professional wrestling and other opportunities, decided it was time to lace up his wrestling shoes again. Now, as he prepares to step onto the mat for the University of Minnesota, he’s made one thing clear—he’s not here to coast.
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The dominant Gable Steveson returns
If there’s one name that defines dominance in NCAA wrestling, it’s Gable Steveson. But is it fair for him to compete with the level after gaining such exposure? The heavyweight has an unmatched legacy: two NCAA titles, an Olympic gold medal from Tokyo 2021, and a reputation for putting on electrifying performances that fans crave. But after his departure in 2022, many believed his collegiate wrestling chapter was closed; he even performed the traditional gesture that depicts retirement by removing his wrestling shoes on the mat. Yet here he is, back at the same mat, ready to dominate it once again.
Steveson’s return isn’t just ceremonial. He plans to wrestle every duel for Minnesota, telling fans, “I think every match you see me at University of Minnesota, I’m going to be there. It’s why not, you know, I showed up to wrestle, and I’m going to show up to wrestle every single duel.” This isn’t just talk. This is Steveson’s way of reaffirming his commitment to the sport and the people who’ve supported him.
So, how is this return even possible? It’s all thanks to a unique rule the NCAA implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which granted athletes affected by it an extra year of eligibility. That’s what Gable redeemed. Steveson initially moved on to other ventures too; that extra year gave him an opening—and he’s taking it. With the NCAA clearing his participation, Steveson is ready to pick up where he left off, and everyone’s right to go ballistic on this!
Time away and experiences beyond wrestling
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What did he do while he was away? After stepping away from NCAA wrestling, Steveson ventured into new territory, or so to say—territories. In 2022, he signed with WWE as their NIL (Name, Image, Likeness). He also made appearances in WrestleMania 38 in April 2022, where he was introduced as the next star. Later on, in August, he was seen getting into football; he trained with the University of Minnesota’s football team as a defensive tackle. But look, fast forward to now, the scene has completely changed. In Gable, there was always a sense that wrestling fans hadn’t seen the last of him on the collegiate stage, and next we know, he breaks the news to be back!
Steveson’s time away wasn’t just about trying new things—it was also about growth and exposure. Now, as he prepares for his comeback, he’s more focused than ever, as this is something dear to him. Steveson has been upfront about his plans, expressing them during the Badar Show. Admitting he might miss a tournament or two in December 2024, but come January 2025, he’s all in. His words, “I might miss a tournament this month or maybe two, but after that, January comes, and I plan on wrestling every single match.”
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Steveson is a fair guy; he treats everyone the same. He says, “Whether the guy’s number two in the country or unranked, it doesn’t matter to me. I look at every opponent the same.” That mentality, combined with his skill and experience, makes him a nightmare for anyone standing across from him. His return to NCAA wrestling is more than just a headline—it’s a game-changer. Gable Steveson is coming back for more, and it’s a chance to witness greatness once again. For his rivals, it’s a daunting challenge that raises the stakes of every match. It’s about showing up, competing, and honoring the sport he loves. Wrestling fans, you guys need to buckle up. This isn’t just a comeback; it’s a statement. Steveson is here to wrestle, and he’s ready to leave it all on the mat.
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Is Gable Steveson's return to NCAA wrestling fair, or is it an unfair advantage?
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