Gable Steveson made a statement in his UFC debut at UFC 329, finishing Elisha Ellison with a big left hand.
The Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA champion showed off a diverse striking skillset throughout the fight, clearly wanting to work his striking early. He landed leg kicks that showed off his work with Jon Jones ahead of his MMA debut, though one of those kicks hit the cup before landing on Ellison's waistline.
It didn't matter. Steveson continued to showcase his striking before finishing Ellison with a big left hand.
Work to Do
It wasn't a perfect performance. As Luke Thomas noted, Steveson has to work on his defense. However, there is a lot for the big man to work with.
Jon Jones, who has been working with Steveson, came away impressed.
Championship Potential
Renowned MMA coach Greg Jackson, whose trainees include Jones, believes Steveson has the material to become a champion.
"Without a doubt (he can be champion)," Jackson said. "Taking a gold medal at the heavyweight level is so hard to do. Unbelievable. The talent there, who you're going up against β good lord. Just winning an NCAA, just one title, is so hard to do. Yeah, he has the championship mentality."
What's Next?
Ellison was an ideal debut opponent. He only had five professional fights under his belt as an undersized heavyweight and had lost his only fight in the UFC.
Prize money was not disclosed for the event, but it has reportedly generated a $25 million gate, and Steveson's bigger paydays will come as he climbs the UFC ranks.
It is safe to say we will see Steveson moving up the ladder a bit in his next appearance.
