Former WWE Wrestler Gable Steveson Signs with UFC

Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist and NCAA champion, will make his UFC debut at UFC 329 in July.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:21am

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A dynamic, colorful painting in the style of LeRoy Neiman, featuring abstract, energetic brushstrokes that capture the intensity and movement of a mixed martial arts fight, with no recognizable faces or logos.The UFC's newest signing, former WWE wrestler Gable Steveson, brings his explosive athletic talent to the octagon.Dallas Today

Gable Steveson, a former WWE wrestler, has signed with the UFC and will make his debut at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist and NCAA National Champion, had a disappointing run in WWE before being released in 2024. He then tried out for the Buffalo Bills but did not make the team, and has since compiled a 3-0 record in MMA with three first-round knockouts.

Why it matters

Steveson's signing with the UFC is a significant move, as he was once considered a top prospect in WWE. His transition to MMA will be closely watched, as it could signal a new path for elite amateur wrestlers looking to make a name for themselves in the world of professional fighting.

The details

Steveson's signing with the UFC was announced during Saturday's UFC 327 event. He will make his debut at UFC 329 on July 11 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Prior to his WWE stint, Steveson was an Olympic gold medalist and NCAA National Champion at the University of Minnesota. His run in WWE was disappointing, leading to his release in 2024. He then tried out for the Buffalo Bills but did not make the team, before turning his attention to MMA, where he has compiled a 3-0 record with three first-round knockouts.

  • Steveson signed with WWE in September 2021.
  • He was released from WWE in May 2024.
  • Steveson tried out for the Buffalo Bills later in 2024 but did not make the team.
  • Steveson has compiled a 3-0 MMA record with three first-round knockouts.
  • Steveson's UFC debut will be at UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, in Las Vegas.

The players

Gable Steveson

A former WWE wrestler who is now signed with the UFC. Steveson is an Olympic gold medalist and NCAA National Champion at the University of Minnesota.

UFC

The leading professional mixed martial arts organization in the world.

WWE

The largest professional wrestling promotion in the world, where Steveson had a disappointing run before being released.

Buffalo Bills

An NFL team that Steveson tried out for in 2024 but did not make the team.

Real American Freestyle

A MMA promotion that Steveson recently signed with, allowing him to also compete in the UFC.

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What they’re saying

“Something tells me that WWE officials won't be asking TKO officials about having Steveson make crossover appearances any time soon.”

— Jason Powell, ProWrestling.net Editor

What’s next

Steveson will make his UFC debut at UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

Gable Steveson's transition from WWE to the UFC represents a significant shift in his professional career. As a former Olympic gold medalist and NCAA champion, his success or failure in the UFC will be closely watched, as it could open up new paths for elite amateur wrestlers looking to make their mark in the world of professional fighting.