Gable Steveson Returns to NCAA Wrestling After Unsuccessful WWE and NFL Pursuits

The Olympic gold medalist seeks a third national title with Minnesota while facing mixed reactions and speculation about his future in MMA.

Gable Steveson, a 2020 Olympic gold medalist, has returned to collegiate wrestling with the University of Minnesota after stints in WWE and an NFL tryout that did not meet expectations.
Steveson's decision to rejoin the NCAA has drawn both praise for his loyalty to Minnesota and criticism for competing as an Olympic champion in a collegiate category.
His comeback has reignited interest in his NCAA career, with Steveson dominating in his return match and extending his winning streak to 55-0, the fourth longest in Minnesota's program history.
Wrestling legends, including Kurt Angle, have expressed support for Steveson’s athletic potential, while also questioning his choice to return to college wrestling rather than pursuing other avenues like MMA.
UFC stars Jon Jones and Bo Nickal have speculated that Steveson could excel in mixed martial arts, with Jones predicting he could become a dominant force in the UFC if he transitions to the sport.