Gable Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, is currently focused on winning his third NCAA Championship for the University of Minnesota. Looking beyond collegiate wrestling, Steveson, age 24, is increasingly hinting at a future career in mixed martial arts. While he has spoken about fighting before, his involvement in Jon Jones’ training camp for the Stipe Miocic fight marked a significant step towards this transition.
Steveson applies a champion’s mentality to all his athletic pursuits and anticipates bringing the same dedication to MMA when he eventually enters the sport.
“I’m young and motivated,” Steveson stated. “I aspire to be the best in every endeavor I undertake.”
While many wrestlers have transitioned to MMA, the speed of success varies greatly.
Bo Nickal, a three-time NCAA champion, has experienced a remarkably rapid rise in MMA since fully committing to fighting. He boasts an undefeated record of 7-0, including four UFC victories, and is scheduled for his fifth UFC fight in May against former ONE Championship two-division titleholder Reinier de Ridder.
Despite the intense attention surrounding him as a prospect with only seven professional fights, Nickal has thrived under pressure, with many predicting he will ultimately become a UFC champion.
Steveson has been notably impressed by Nickal’s progress, viewing him as a benchmark for wrestlers entering MMA.
“Bo is exceptional,” Steveson commented. “Observing Bo’s presence and aura, it’s clear he is a three-time National Champion, a U23 World Champion, and an Olympic alternate. Bo possesses all the attributes to be a champion right now.”
“His style is unique. He’s rangy, and his takedowns are highly effective, particularly in the UFC. His cage control is also developing. As he faces tougher opponents, his strong wrestling foundation and transitional wrestling skills will be even more apparent.”
Prior to assisting Jones, Steveson also trained at Kill Cliff FC in Florida, alongside notable fighters like Michael Chandler, Gilbert Burns, and Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Currently, Steveson is not fully dedicated to MMA, but he hopes to replicate Nickal’s swift progress once he commits entirely to the sport.
“I believe the audience will determine my potential, and they are free to have their opinions,” Steveson remarked. “Personally, I believe I can compete at a high level with anyone, at any time. I’m confident I can perform well and hold my own right now.”
“When the timing is right — and it will become clear — that opportunity will arise, and we will excel and advance as much as possible in MMA.”
For the moment, Steveson is focused on securing his third NCAA title, having started strong with a pin and another dominant victory to reach the quarterfinals.
Marcus Blakely