**Gable Steveson Trending After Revealing UFC Ambitions on Joe Rogan Podcast**
Key Takeaways:
- Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson detailed his MMA journey on The Joe Rogan Experience #172
- Steveson confirmed Jon Jones is coaching him toward his UFC debut
- His goal is to debut at the UFC’s highly anticipated White House card in 2026
Los Angeles, CA — “Gable Steveson” is trending after the Olympic wrestling champion and MMA prospect appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show #172, offering a rare, in-depth look into his transition from Olympic freestyle wrestling to mixed martial arts. In the episode released this week and now circulating widely on social media, Steveson spoke candidly about training under UFC legend Jon Jones, his striking evolution, and his plan to debut in the UFC — ideally at the organization’s upcoming international White House event.
Steveson Confirms He’s All-In on MMA, Guided by Jon Jones
During the podcast, 25-year-old Gable Steveson told Rogan that he has shifted his full focus to MMA and is currently training twice a day to sharpen his striking. He revealed that Jon Jones, widely considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, is serving as a personal mentor, training partner, and advisor on everything from fight strategy to composure under pressure. Steveson’s athletic foundation is already solid — he’s a freestyle wrestling Olympic gold medalist and former collegiate champion — but said he’s committed to mastering MMA’s many disciplines before stepping into the Octagon officially.
“That was the worst I’ll ever be,” Steveson told Rogan, referring to a recent knockout he delivered in 14 seconds during a minor league MMA bout. “Just think about how much better I’ll be,” he added, referencing the training he’s undergoing with elite coaches and fighters.
Post-Wrestling Pivot Draws Eyes After Steveson’s NFL and WWE Stints
Steveson’s appearance comes at a crucial juncture in his career. After briefly signing with the Buffalo Bills — despite never playing football before — and one televised bout with WWE, Steveson has decided to pursue elite MMA full time. His conversation with Rogan was revealing not just for its insights into his athletic training, but also his mental approach. Steveson emphasized that he’s “all ears” in camp and taking nothing for granted, even as praise builds around his natural abilities.
His story is gaining traction amid broader interest in crossover athletes redefining MMA norms. Comparisons to Bo Nickal and Greg Hardy are inevitable, but Steveson’s elite Olympic pedigree places him in rarer air. On social media, analysts and fans alike are urging UFC President Dana White to fast-track him into the promotion.
UFC Debut Likely in 2026 — Possibly at the White House Card
Notably, Steveson mentioned that his plan is to remain unsigned for now and continue sharpening his skills through independent fights. However, he told Rogan that his perfect vision would be to officially sign with the UFC and make his debut at the much-advertised White House card — a UFC event rumored for late 2026 that Dana White has teased as historic.
Finding opponents willing to fight Steveson may be a challenge, given his rising profile and shocking athleticism. But that hasn’t stopped the UFC from courting him, with date-based offers already underway. With Steveson showing both media savvy and technical promise, his transition from prospect to prizefighter could happen faster than expected — especially if Jon Jones remains in his corner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Gable Steveson trending?
A: Steveson appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience and discussed his MMA journey, Jon Jones mentorship, and UFC plans.
Q: What happens next?
A: Steveson intends to continue independent fights and is targeting a UFC debut at the White House card in 2026.
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