In a revealing interview with Overdogs Podcast, Olympic wrestling gold medalist Gable Steveson announced he has begun training for a potential career in mixed martial arts, with aspirations to become a UFC heavyweight champion.
Steveson, who captured America’s hearts when he won gold at the Tokyo Olympics in freestyle wrestling, is now looking to translate his elite wrestling skills to the octagon.
“I want to put the gloves on. I want to be a UFC star,” Steveson declared during the interview. “I want to be a champion. I want to hold that belt up high and be in the heavyweight division.”
The transition from Olympic wrestling to MMA would follow a path similar to other wrestling standouts who have found success in the UFC, including former Olympic wrestlers Henry Cejudo and Daniel Cormier, both of whom became champions in the organization.
Steveson’s wrestling credentials make him an intriguing prospect for the heavyweight division. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical wrestling ability would provide a solid foundation for an MMA career. The UFC heavyweight division, currently led by champion Jon Jones, could use fresh talent of Steveson’s caliber.
However, the gold medalist acknowledges that such a transition requires patience and proper development. “I think the main thing is taking the time with it and making sure everything’s polished and right,” Steveson explained. “So when I do shoot off that rocket ship, there’s no stopping.”
Steveson’s career options don’t appear limited to just MMA. The multi-talented athlete has also been connected to potential opportunities in the NFL and WWE, showcasing his remarkable athletic versatility.
While no timeline has been announced for his UFC debut, the mere possibility of Steveson entering the heavyweight division has already generated significant buzz among MMA fans and analysts who recognize his potential to make a substantial impact.
If Steveson does fully commit to MMA, his wrestling pedigree alone would immediately make him one of the most intriguing prospects in recent memory. The heavyweight division, often criticized for its aging talent pool, could benefit tremendously from an athlete of Steveson’s caliber and mainstream recognition.
For now, fans will have to wait as Steveson continues his training and prepares for what could be an exciting new chapter in his already impressive athletic career.
