Overview
- Sean Sharaf landed a left hook that knocked out Gable Steveson in 12 seconds at UFC 331 on Saturday, producing a major upset and an immediate end to the bout.
- Steveson posted a lengthy Instagram denial of a 2019 criminal sexual‑conduct allegation that prosecutors declined to charge after citing inadequate evidence.
- Sharaf raised the 2019 allegation during fight week, called Steveson a ‘rapist’ at a press conference, and has said he will not take a rematch.
- Critics including Matt Brown and Colby Covington urged Steveson to leave coach Jon Jones while supporters such as Javier Mendez and UFC president Dana White defended Jones and recommended patience.
- Steveson’s manager demanded an apology from commentator Daniel Cormier over criticism of Steveson’s early Octagon exit and Steveson has vowed a comeback while his immediate fight plan remains unsettled.