Gable Steveson is set to participate in his third professional fight this Thursday as the main event at MFL 3 in Mexico. Despite being early in his career at just 25 years old, he is viewed as a potential turning point for the heavyweight division, which has faced recent criticism for its lack of emerging talent.
Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling, has made a striking debut in mixed martial arts (MMA), defeating his first two opponents in under three minutes combined. A victory in his upcoming fight could catapult him directly into the UFC, where the heavyweight division is currently in a slump, particularly after reigning champion Tom Aspinall underwent double eye surgery following an injury in his recent match with Ciryl Gane.
The UFC has been anxiously awaiting Aspinall’s recovery to arrange a rematch, but the pool of legitimate contenders for the title remains scant. Steveson’s rise could inject new excitement into the division, and he expresses gratitude for the high expectations others have for him.
In an interview, Steveson emphasized that he does not feel burdened by the spotlight, stating, “There’s no pressure. I’ve been in those big spots before… We’re trained for pressure. It makes diamonds.” His confidence stems from his rigorous preparation and understanding of what it takes to succeed in high-stakes environments. He acknowledged the respect he holds for his fellow fighters while also recognizing his unique attributes — power, speed, and the ability to dominate.
Steveson appreciates the faith that fans and analysts have in him, saying, “It’s an honor that people expect so much from me. I’m here to prove them right.” He remains focused on improving during each training camp and showcasing his progress in fights rather than concerning himself too much with how he is perceived.
As he gears up for Thursday’s match, Steveson recognizes the inevitability of a swift ascension in the sport given his pedigree. “It was going to happen,” he reflected on the expectations surrounding his potential. “I just need to put on a good show for the people.”
Should he secure a victory, Steveson would advance to a 3-0 record, significantly increasing his chances of being invited to the UFC, potentially even for the upcoming UFC White House card in June. His promising trajectory is currently a subject of speculation, but he remains focused on the task at hand, reiterating, “We’re focused on Thursday.”
Steveson’s journey is filled with potential, and as the heavyweight division looks for a fresh superstar, his continued success could rekindle interest and excitement in one of the most challenging categories of mixed martial arts.