SPORTS

Gable Steveson's Big Move: Training with a UFC Icon for His Next Challenge

Las Vegas, Nevada, USATue Jun 17 2025
Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist, is making waves in the combat sports world. He is preparing for a high-stakes grappling match against Craig Jones. This event is set to take place on August 31st in Las Vegas. Steveson is not taking this lightly. He has brought in a heavyweight to help him train. Jon "Bones" Jones, a UFC legend, is now part of Steveson's team. This move is surprising, given that the match is purely about grappling. However, the video footage shows a focused Jon Jones coaching Steveson with intensity. Steveson is eager to learn from Jones, showing that this is more than just a publicity stunt. It is about real transformation. Steveson has always admired Jones. Now, that respect has turned into a mentorship. Jones is helping Steveson build a game that goes beyond traditional wrestling. He is teaching Steveson the mindset, movement, and muscle memory needed to dominate in all realms of combat. Craig Jones is known for his precision in grappling. He has dismantled even the most seasoned grapplers. Last year, he made headlines by submitting Gabi Garcia in an intergender bout. Steveson, on the other hand, is coming off a narrow loss at the NCAA finals. He is entering this clash with something to prove. With Jon Jones in his corner, Steveson is ready to bring a storm to the mat. Steveson is also looking beyond this match. He is considering a jump to the UFC. He has mentioned that he is being mentored by Jon Jones. Their bond might just pave the way for Steveson's potential leap to the UFC. Steveson has spoken about his admiration for Jones and his desire to learn from him. He is focused on the fundamentals, ensuring he is ready for any challenge. Though no formal talks have occurred yet, Steveson's crossover ambitions feel more like a matter of time.

questions

    How does training with Jon Jones, a striking specialist, benefit Gable Steveson in a pure grappling match against Craig Jones?
    Could the intense training sessions between Steveson and Jones be a cover for something more sinister, like secret underground fights?
    If Jon Jones is teaching Gable Steveson striking, will Steveson start throwing haymakers in his grappling matches?

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