How Jon Jones’ Training Inspired Gable Steveson to Explore MMA Career
Gable Steveson is eager to move into MMA after training with Jon Jones. Steveson worked with Jones during his preparation for the UFC 309 fight against Stipe Miocic. Jones won the fight by TKO in Round 3.
At the post-fight news conference, Jones praised Steveson’s potential in MMA. He stated, “He’s going to be scary. When he learns to box and knows some jiu-jitsu, it’s not about if he’ll be a UFC champion, but when.”
Steveson won an Olympic gold medal in wrestling in 2020. His plans in WWE and the NFL did not materialize. However, his time training with Jones sparked his interest in MMA. He said, “It felt like home base. With wrestling, boxing, and jiu-jitsu, I feel like I’d be very good very quickly.”
What skills from wrestling will Gable Steveson leverage in his MMA career?
Exclusive Interview with Gable Steveson: The Olympic Champion Eyes MMA After Training with Jon Jones
Following a monumental fight night at UFC 309, where Jon Jones secured a TKO victory against Stipe Miocic, Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson reflects on his transformative journey into mixed martial arts (MMA). We sat down with Steveson to discuss his recent experiences training alongside one of the sport’s legends and what lies ahead for him in this new arena.
News Directory: Gable, your recent training with Jon Jones seems to have significantly impacted your perspective on MMA. Can you tell us about that experience?
Gable Steveson: Training with Jon was invaluable. The intensity, the techniques—every session was like a masterclass. It’s one thing to watch MMA, but experiencing the grind with someone as talented and experienced as Jon really opened my eyes. It felt like home base. With wrestling as my foundation and now adding boxing and jiu-jitsu, I feel like I’d be very good very quickly.
News Directory: Jon Jones spoke highly of your potential after UFC 309, suggesting that it’s not a question of if, but when you’ll become a UFC champion. How does that kind of endorsement make you feel?
Gable Steveson: Hearing that from someone like Jon is incredibly motivating. It definitely fuels my drive. I respect him immensely, and to know he sees something in me pushes me even harder. I’m ready to embrace the challenge and put in the work required to reach that championship level.
News Directory: You have previously pursued pathways in WWE and the NFL. What led you to focus on MMA now?
Gable Steveson: My initial plans in WWE and the NFL didn’t materialize as I had hoped, but that’s okay. My time training with Jon has sparked a genuine passion for MMA. I love the sport and the competition. Each discipline brings something unique, and I feel there’s so much I can achieve here.
News Directory: Have you made any decisions about joining a fight promotion, or is that still in the early stages?
Gable Steveson: I’m definitely open to it. Training with Jon has made me realize that this is a path I want to pursue. I’m still weighing my options and considering the best opportunities that come my way. I want to ensure I make the right move when the time comes.
News Directory: What’s next for you as you transition into this new chapter of your athletic career?
Gable Steveson: Right now, I’m focused on training. I want to build my skill set and prepare myself for whatever comes. Whether it’s a fight promotion or additional training, I’m ready for the journey ahead. My goal is to work hard, stay dedicated, and hopefully become a champion in MMA.
News Directory: Any final thoughts you’d like to share with your fans and supporters?
Gable Steveson: I appreciate all the support. It means the world to me. I’m excited about this new adventure, and I promise to give it everything I have. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning!
As Steveson embarks on this promising venture into MMA, fans will undoubtedly be following his journey closely, eager to see how this Olympic champion translates his wrestling prowess into striking dominance within the octagon.
Steveson is open to joining a fight promotion but has not made a decision yet. His experience with Jones inspires him to pursue MMA.