The WWE and UFC are starting to become interesting bedfellows. From the Stamford-based promotion hosting its first event at UFC Apex on June 9, more crossovers are expected to come. That includes Gable Steveson, who was released by WWE earlier this month.
With the former collegiate champion considering his options (including the NFL), one move he should consider is jumping ship to the MMA sphere. Here, he can put his wrestling skills to good use, taking on all comers.
That includes training with former MMA superstar Robbie Lawler, who’s prepping him for a potential run. So why not have some fun and see which fights could be fun? Here are three fights Steveson should take if he steps into the UFC octagon.
Gable Steveson vs. Alex Pereira
Alex Pereira has been itching for a heavyweight division fight, with his eyes on Jon Jones. However, imagine “Poatan” taking on Gable Steveson in a one-on-one bout. This fight would be fun to watch for plenty of reasons.
For one, Steveson would be the up-and-coming superstar in the UFC (if he signed). Why not watch him take on one of the hottest fighters in the promotion? There are also contrasting styles between the two fighters, with the Minnesota alum specializing in freestyle wrestling. Meanwhile, the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion is the ultimate kickboxer, using a defensive style to effectively counter his opponents.
Fans dig an underdog story, which is where Steveson would come in. However, it’s even better when the favored fighter is fun to watch, which is where Pereira would come in. It equals an awe-inspiring fight that brings out the best in both fighters and leaves fans wanting more.
Steveson vs. Derrick Lewis
Gable Steveson’s freestyle wrestling would also make for an interesting contrast with another fighter: Derrick Lewis. However, this would be unique in that Lewis is a powerful fighter, using his knockout power to deliver devastating strikes.
That’s why the Houston native has become one of the more underrated fighters in the UFC today. His penchant for ending fights quickly (14 stoppage victories, most in the UFC’s heavyweight division) would provide a big test for the decorated NCAA wrestler. Can Steveson avoid Lewis and put him in a submission?
Steveson vs. Brock Lesnar
Two former WWE superstars. Two former Minnesota Golden Gophers. Two incredible wrestlers. What would happen if Gable Steveson took on the “Beast Incarnate,” Brock Lesnar? Granted, there would be a ton of hurdles for Lesnar to clear, including a battle with diverticulitis, so this fight’s not happening any time soon. However, it’d be fun to see how the two alums of the University of Minnesota would fare.
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Jacob Walters is a boxing/MMA writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @IceColdWJacob
