Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA Division I Heavyweight champion Gable Steveson continued to make waves in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with an astonishing victory on November 23, 2025, at Anthony Pettis FC 21 (APFC 21). Competing at the Isleta Resort & Casino in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Steveson secured a knockout win against Kevin Hein in a mere 24 seconds, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the sport.
Hein started the fight aggressively, but it only took one precise left hook from Steveson to bring the contest to an abrupt end. As Hein fell unconscious, Steveson’s instinctive reaction led him to perform a power double leg, showcasing his wrestling pedigree and emphasizing the dominance of his performance.
Following the match, Steveson expressed disappointment that UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard was not present to witness his impressive display, as Maynard was still en route from UFC Qatar. This moment served as a subtle yet powerful indication of Steveson’s eagerness to transition to the UFC, where he believes he can thrive at the highest level.
Steveson’s remarkable victory not only marked his third consecutive win in professional combat sports but also highlighted his ongoing dominance, with each win coming by way of first-round knockout. After making a stunning MMA debut in which he defeated Braden Peterson in under two minutes at LFA 127 and a rapid 15-second knockout in a one-off fight for Dirty Boxing, tonight’s lightning-fast finish continued to build his collection of explosive highlights.
While gaining experience in the regional circuit is essential, moving up to the UFC seems like the next inevitable step for Steveson. His impressive track record and explosive fighting style indicate he is more than ready to take on the challenges of the premier MMA organization. As he wraps up 2025 with a perfect 3-0 record, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what the future holds for this talented fighter as he aims for a spot in the octagon.