UFC Signs Amateur Wrestling Star Gable Steveson

Steveson expected to make Octagon debut during International Fight Week in Las Vegas

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:58am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and intense physicality of a wrestling or MMA match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives conveying the raw power and athleticism of the sport.The UFC's signing of Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson promises to bring a new level of wrestling talent and explosive action to the Octagon.Las Vegas Today

The UFC has signed former amateur wrestling star Gable Steveson to a fight contract. Steveson is expected to make his debut inside the Octagon during International Fight Week in Las Vegas this summer.

Why it matters

Steveson is a highly decorated amateur wrestler, winning an Olympic gold medal in 2020. His signing is a major coup for the UFC as they look to continue building their roster of elite wrestling talent that can crossover into MMA.

The details

Steveson, 26, won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He also won NCAA Division I national championships in 2021 and 2022 while competing for the University of Minnesota. The UFC has not yet announced Steveson's first opponent, but he is expected to compete in the heavyweight or light heavyweight division.

  • Steveson signed with the UFC over the weekend.
  • He is expected to make his UFC debut during International Fight Week in Las Vegas this summer.

The players

Gable Steveson

A 26-year-old former amateur wrestling star who won an Olympic gold medal in 2020 and two NCAA Division I national championships.

UFC

The premier mixed martial arts organization, which has signed Steveson to a fight contract.

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What they’re saying

“Gable Steveson is an incredible talent and we're excited to have him join the UFC roster. He has all the tools to become a champion in our organization.”

— Dana White, UFC President

What’s next

The UFC has not yet announced Steveson's first opponent or the date of his debut fight, but it is expected to take place during International Fight Week in Las Vegas this summer.

The takeaway

Steveson's signing is a major coup for the UFC as they continue to build their roster of elite wrestling talent that can crossover into MMA. His Olympic and NCAA championship pedigree make him a highly touted prospect, and fight fans will be eager to see how his wrestling skills translate to the Octagon.