There’s a lot of excitement—and even some controversy—surrounding the potential of Gable Steveson to shake up the UFC heavyweight division. Many are beginning to wonder: could this Olympic champion wrestler become a genuine game-changer in mixed martial arts? And here's where it gets interesting: some experts believe he might have the kind of impact comparable to Brock Lesnar, but only time will tell.
UFC commentator Laura Sanko has expressed her curiosity about whether Steveson, who is still early in his MMA career with just two professional fights, can truly make a significant mark in the heavyweight class. Despite such a brief record, he's already managed to turn heads thanks to eye-catching finishes in both of his bouts. UFC CEO Dana White has openly indicated that Steveson is already on the organization’s radar—an indication of how highly the promotion regards his potential.
Adding to the intrigue, the 25-year-old sports the mentorship of legendary fighter Jon Jones, who is guiding his initial steps into the octagon. This connection suggests Steveson has access to top-tier training and strategic insight, which could accelerate his rise.
Laura Sanko highlighted the possibility of a highly impactful year ahead for Steveson, even before he’s officially signed with the UFC. She points out that the heavyweight division desperately needs stars—fighters who can draw attention and excite the fanbase. Heavyweights are known for their ability to produce spectacular knockouts and memorable moments, especially with the current broadcast deal with Paramount+, which aims to boost viewership.
There’s a comparison being made to Brock Lesnar, a fighter who managed to appeal broadly due to his size, strength, and charismatic presence. Sanko believes that Steveson could have a similar appeal—someone who captivates mainstream audiences while fighting in a division that’s been historically lacking in consistent star power. She even mentions the potential for Steveson to develop into a competitor for fighters like Tom Aspinall, further fueling anticipation.
Many industry insiders are practically labeling Steveson as one of the most promising prospects in MMA right now. For example, Joe Rogan has expressed confidence that Steveson could already compete with the top five fighters in the division, which signals high praise from a seasoned analyst and commentator.
However, Sanko emphasizes the importance of patience. Though she is optimistic, she urges caution—especially when it comes to developing a heavyweight fighter compared to those in lighter weight classes. The rules of progress are different in each division, and without a doubt, Steveson still has to prove himself in the octagon. Yet, she suggests that the heavyweight division could be a unique environment where his growth might be faster than usual.
When considering his potential trajectory, it's worth asking: can Gable Steveson sustain this early hype and turn it into sustained success? Or is this just another case of explosive talent that fizzles out without proper development? Fans and critics alike should stay tuned—because in MMA, nothing is guaranteed, and debates over the next big star are always worth having.
