It’s not every day that we witness a real-life ‘David vs. Goliath’ affair but that’s exactly what happened at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships Finals. It is where Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson shockingly lost to Wyatt Hendrickson in what Daniel Cormier has called the “biggest upset in the history of the NCAA”. The 24-year-old released a lengthy statement after the fight, where it seems he is taking the loss in stride. But posting something on Instagram is one thing since no one can see you. You can’t hide your feelings in a live interview with the irreverent Pat McAfee.
Based on what he told McAfee on his ESPN show, it seems Steveson is taking the loss remarkably well. Moreover, he is focused on his future, which could transpire in the UFC. And to guide him through his MMA journey, he has found the perfect mentor! It’s none other than the GOAT contender, Jon Jones.
“I mean I got a great mentor right now. I hope a lot of people know a guy named Jon Jones… He’s pretty damn good you know. And I appreciate his efforts of trying to lead me into the right direction and kinda taking my back and giving me the direction I need,” he said.
“I think that’s [MMA is] the best outlet for amateur wrestlers overall. I have not spoken to Dana personally, that’s one meeting I would love to have face-to-face, you know. I’ve been waiting for a long time. I know after the 2021 Olympics he reached out to me and wanted me to come see him in Vegas. That’s one meeting I would love to have,” he added.
Gable Steveson calls @JonnyBones his mentor and says he’s “taking my back and giving me the direction I need” as he prepares for a future in MMA.
Still wants to have a face-to-face meeting with Dana White to talk about his future #UFC #NCAAWrestling
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) March 24, 2025
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The post “He’s Pretty Damn Good” – Gable Steveson Comes Clean On ‘Mentor’ Jon Jones Amid MMA Transition Rumors appeared first on EssentiallySports.
