Gable Steveson, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist, is showing strong confidence as he embarks on his mixed martial arts (MMA) journey, despite limited experience in the sport. The 25-year-old athlete, having briefly pursued wrestling with WWE, is now transitioning fully to MMA, aiming for a UFC contract by 2026.
Steveson is set for his third professional MMA bout this Thursday, competing under the Mexico Fight League. With only a 2-0 record so far mainly in regional fights, he already believes he can contend with some of the UFC’s heavyweight elite, positioning himself as a rising force within the division.
Steveson Expresses Confidence Against Current UFC Heavyweight Champions
Steveson has earned praise from notable figures such as Joe Rogan and former UFC champion Jon Jones, who both recognize his potential in MMA. While Rogan highlights his capabilities, Jones envisions him quickly becoming a difficult opponent for fighters ranked among the UFC’s top 10 heavyweights.
Following swift victories early in his career, Steveson recently declared his belief that he can compete effectively against prominent fighters like Tom Aspinall, Ciryl Gane, and Alex Pereira. Addressing the Submission Radio audience, Steveson stated,
“Those three big names — Pereira, Aspinall, Gane — I can compete with most definitely, especially right now,”
He further noted that age could become a factor in his advantage, saying,
“As time goes on, you don’t get any faster,”
referring to his younger age compared to those rivals. He pointed out that Tom Aspinall is somewhat older, while Pereira and Gane are significantly older, suggesting that his youth and physical prime will help him close any skill gaps over time.
Analyzing Steveson’s Strengths and the Current State of the UFC Heavyweight Division
Steveson’s wrestling background gives him a significant edge, particularly in the heavyweight division, which is often criticized as the UFC’s weakest weight class. Once considered the marquee division akin to heavyweight boxing, the UFC’s heavyweight ranks as of 2026 have become less dynamic beyond the very top fighters.
Below fighters like Aspinall, the division is filled with competitors whose limited skills result in matches that fail to excite fans. Steveson’s elite wrestling skills immediately set him apart in such a landscape, offering a rare technical proficiency in the heavyweight roster.
Moreover, Steveson is already developing his striking abilities, adding depth to his fighting style. This combination of strong wrestling and emerging striking capabilities positions him to advance quickly, particularly when compared to other contenders who lack similar technical skills.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects for Steveson in the UFC
Steveson’s rapid early success and physical tools suggest he could soon enter the UFC heavyweight top tier, potentially challenging established stars like Aspinall and Gane. His youth and wrestling specialization might allow him to exploit weaknesses present in the current heavyweight pool, elevating the competitiveness of the division.
As he continues to gain experience with upcoming fights, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Steveson can fulfill the expectations set by mentors and commentators alike. Should he secure a UFC contract by 2026, the heavyweight division could witness a fresh contender capable of shaking up the existing hierarchy.
