Gable Steveson's UFC Future Uncertain, Says Blaydes

Olympic gold medalist faces potential hurdles in transitioning to MMA's heavyweight division

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:36am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the abstract movements and power dynamics of a wrestling or MMA match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the contrasting physical attributes of the competitors.A cubist interpretation of the potential clash of styles between Gable Steveson's wrestling prowess and the physical advantages of his taller, longer-limbed UFC heavyweight opponents.Las Vegas Today

Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson has been rumored to make his UFC debut soon, but heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes has issued a reality check, saying Steveson's physical attributes, particularly his height, could create issues as he transitions from wrestling to MMA. While Steveson's mentor Jon Jones believes his speed is 'unprecedented' for a heavyweight, Blaydes argues that longer opponents who know how to sprawl could pose problems for the 6'1" wrestler.

Why it matters

Steveson's potential move to the UFC has generated significant buzz, with Jones predicting he could become a UFC champion. However, Blaydes' comments highlight the challenges Steveson may face against the larger, longer heavyweights in the UFC, raising questions about how quickly he can adapt his wrestling skills to the MMA game.

The details

Steveson, who currently holds a 3-0 MMA record, is rumored to be cageside at UFC 327 this weekend. Blaydes, who stands 6'4", argues that Steveson's height disadvantage against other top heavyweights could be an issue, as opponents who know how to sprawl and neutralize his wrestling could expose him. Steveson's most recent win was a dominant first-round TKO over Hugo Lezama at MFL 3 on February 19, 2026.

  • Steveson will make his RAF debut on May 30, 2026.
  • Steveson is rumored to be cageside at UFC 327 this weekend.

The players

Gable Steveson

An Olympic gold medalist wrestler who is rumored to be making his UFC debut soon.

Curtis Blaydes

A top UFC heavyweight contender who has issued a reality check on Steveson's potential struggles in the UFC due to his height disadvantage.

Jon Jones

A former UFC champion who is currently mentoring Steveson and believes he has the speed to succeed in the UFC heavyweight division.

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What they’re saying

“I think he's a lot better grappler than [Josh Hokit], but he doesn't have the reach, so I feel like that's going to be an issue. It hasn't been an issue yet, but you give him a longer guy who knows how to sprawl, and that could be a problem. So I'd like to see him have to figure that out before he gets to the UFC, I don't want him to be overly rushed and get exposed…Who knows [that he's ready] better than he does? If he believes it, then all power to him.”

— Curtis Blaydes, UFC Heavyweight Contender

“Steveson's speed is 'unprecedented' for a heavyweight, which could give him the edge.”

— Jon Jones

What’s next

Steveson will make his RAF debut on May 30, 2026, where he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills against a longer opponent and potentially address the concerns raised by Blaydes.

The takeaway

Steveson's transition to the UFC heavyweight division will be closely watched, as his wrestling pedigree and speed could give him an advantage, but his height disadvantage against larger opponents may also present significant challenges that he'll need to overcome to succeed at the highest level of MMA.