Gable Steveson Explores MMA Future After Training with Jon Jones

Gable Steveson training with Jon Jones

Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson is inching closer to a potential career in MMA after an inspiring training stint with UFC legend Jon Jones. The 24-year-old wrestler, who captured the world’s attention at the 2020 Summer Olympics, has faced a series of career shifts but now sees combat sports as a viable next step.

Steveson initially opted for professional wrestling, signing with WWE shortly after his Olympic triumph. However, his tenure with the organization was short-lived, ending in May after an underwhelming run. Transitioning to a new sport, Steveson briefly joined the Buffalo Bills despite lacking a football background. Yet, his NFL journey ended abruptly when he was cut from the roster in August.

With professional wrestling and football behind him, Steveson turned to MMA, spending time training with elite athletes like Jon Jones and grappling icon Gordon Ryan. Jones, fresh off his victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, publicly praised Steveson, further fueling speculation about his MMA ambitions.

In a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Steveson shared how his time with Jones reignited his competitive spirit.

“After being in that camp with Jon Jones, that definitely put a major spark in me to go out there and do MMA,” Steveson stated. “Not sure the promotion yet. But Jon definitely lit a fire under me… It was just fascinating how I got into something so quick.”

Although he remains undecided about his immediate future, Steveson hinted at his potential in MMA.

“When I put on the gloves, everything felt like home base. With the wrestling, with the boxing, with the jiu-jitsu, I feel like I’d be very good really quick,” he said. However, he acknowledged that an MMA debut might still be years away. “I [probably] do not have an MMA fight [in the next three years], but I do have a path that can lead me to somewhere great.”

Steveson’s comments leave fans wondering if and when the Olympic star will step into the cage. His natural talent and elite wrestling background suggest that he could make waves in MMA if he decides to commit.