Olympic Wrestling Champion Gable Steveson Inks UFC Contract
The Ultimate Fighting Championship has secured a major new talent, announcing the signing of Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson. The American wrestler, who triumphed at the Tokyo 2020 Games, will make his promotional debut during International Fight Week in July.
Debut Confirmed for UFC 329 in Las Vegas
Commentator Jon Anik confirmed during the UFC 327 broadcast that Steveson will fight at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. His opponent remains undisclosed. The announcement was made during an eventful UFC 327 card in Miami, which saw Carlos Ulberg overcome a serious knee injury to knock out Jiri Prochazka and claim the vacant light-heavyweight championship, with former US president Donald Trump in attendance.
From Olympic Glory to MMA Success
Steveson, 25, has built an impressive combat sports resume beyond his Olympic achievement. After winning gold in Tokyo, he signed with WWE but continued amateur wrestling competition. Last summer, he briefly joined the NFL's Buffalo Bills before being released after three months. WWE released him last May, but he has since found his footing in mixed martial arts.
Since September, Steveson has compiled a perfect 3-0 professional MMA record, with all victories coming via first-round knockout. His most recent performance in November saw him stop Kevin Hein with a brutal left hook just 24 seconds into their bout. Between fights, he also secured a 15-second knockout victory in a Dirty Boxing match against Billy Swanson.
Direct Appeal to UFC Matchmaker
Following his victory over Swanson, Steveson directly addressed UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard, who was present in the audience. "I think a special guest was here to watch me," Steveson said. "Mick, you've seen a little bit - I would love to show you a lot more. Hopefully you believe in me and I appreciate you." This public appeal clearly resonated with UFC decision-makers.
Heavyweight Division Landscape
All of Steveson's MMA bouts have taken place in the heavyweight division, where Tom Aspinall currently reigns as UFC champion. However, with Aspinall recovering from a serious eye injury, Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane are scheduled to compete for the interim title at this summer's White House card. Former UFC star and fellow Olympic wrestler Ben Askren has predicted great success for Steveson, stating: "Gable can be champ in 18 months."
The signing represents a significant coup for the UFC, adding an Olympic champion with demonstrated knockout power to their heavyweight roster. Steveson's transition from amateur wrestling to professional MMA has been remarkably successful thus far, and his July debut will be closely watched by combat sports enthusiasts worldwide.
