The camp surrounding Gable Steveson is maintaining an optimistic outlook following a devastating and unexpected knockout loss.
During UFC 331 last Saturday, Steveson stepped into the cage for his fifth professional mixed martial arts bout against Sean Sharaf, which concluded in a manner he surely never anticipated. A clean, powerful left hook sent the former Olympic gold-winning wrestler crashing to the canvas, followed by quick ground strikes that sealed his fate. The referee halted the action just 12 seconds in, leaving Steveson unconscious and shattering his undefeated record.
A number of observers pointed to a highly stressful fight week for Steveson, particularly after he faced public scrutiny when Sharaf brought up past allegations of sexual abuse. In the wake of the defeat, Abe Kawa, who manages Steveson, took to Instagram to offer a strong message of support and reassurance to his client.
“Getting caught is just part of the game for Gable,” Kawa posted. “Getting booed is fine. Having his opponent talk trash is fine. The public piling on him during a low point is also fine. He chose this profession. Greats like Islam Makhachev have been caught. Arman Tsarukyan has been defeated. Demetrious Johnson, Georges St-Pierre, Daniel Cormier, and Jose Aldo all tasted defeat too. Yet, every single one of them achieved legendary status. Our support for him remains unshaken. He is going to return very quickly and show his true greatness!”
Following the stoppage, Steveson faced backlash for storming out of the cage before the official decision was announced by Bruce Buffer. While UFC 331 color analyst Daniel Cormier was critical of this sudden departure, promotional frontman Dana White seemed far more forgiving regarding the heavyweight’s early exit.
Although this victory marks a career-defining moment for Sharaf, the outcome serves as a profound test of character for Steveson. Over the next several months, observers will be watching closely to see how the former WWE athlete bounces back from this major setback.
Will Gable Steveson rely heavily on his elite wrestling background in his next matchup, or will he continue trying to trade strikes on his feet? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
This story was originally published on BJPENN.COM
