Gable Steveson Set for Professional MMA Debut with Legacy Fighting Alliance on September 12

pranithkumarkanna@gmail.com|Modified on Aug 20, 2025, 05:21 GMT

Former WWE NXT star and Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson is making a bold new career move by entering the world of professional mixed martial arts (MMA). After an underwhelming stint in WWE, Steveson has officially signed with Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) and will make his pro MMA debut on September 12, 2025, marking an exciting fresh start in combat sports.

Gable Steveson rose to prominence as an Olympic wrestling sensation, winning gold in the freestyle 125 kg division at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. His transition to professional wrestling was highly anticipated when WWE signed him, capitalizing on his Olympic pedigree and star power. Steveson debuted at WrestleMania 38 in 2022 and was eventually moved to NXT where he wrestled, including a notable match against Baron Corbin at NXT’s Great American Bash in July 2023. However, his WWE career was marred by lack of momentum, poor fan reception, and developmental struggles, culminating in his release from WWE in May 2024[1][2][3].

Despite the challenges in WWE, Steveson’s athletic prowess and wrestling foundation remain undeniable. His brief time training with UFC icon Jon Jones has drawn considerable interest from MMA fans and insiders, signaling his serious intent to pursue a high-level MMA career. The LFA, known for grooming future UFC talents, provides the perfect launching pad for Steveson’s career pivot[Reference].

From WWE Disappointment to MMA Ambition

According to sources close to Steveson, the former WWE star views his MMA debut not just as a new chapter but as a chance to prove himself again in a true combat arena. “Gable has always been about testing himself against the best and this is a natural step for him. The transition from wrestling to MMA is tough, but he’s dedicated and working hard with seasoned coaches. Fans should expect to see a very different Gable Steveson in the cage,” a WWE insider revealed.

Steveson’s WWE journey, while high-profile initially, did not unfold as hoped. His matches often received mixed reviews, with fans sometimes booing despite his Olympic fame. Criticism centered on his ring skills and lack of progression compared to WWE’s expectations for top-tier recruits. Reports from Wrestling Observer Radio and Fightful indicated WWE deemed his contract too costly relative to his performance and potential. Steveson’s release reflected a business decision amid a broader NXT roster shake-up[1][3].

However, Steveson never lost sight of his roots in legitimate combat sports. Prior to his WWE run, he was celebrated as one of the greatest amateur wrestlers in history. The decision to pursue MMA officially by signing with LFA underscores his drive to leverage his Olympic success in a professional combat context where athletic prowess and fighting skill are paramount.

Legacy Fighting Alliance Welcomes Steveson

The Legacy Fighting Alliance is a well-respected regional MMA promotion that has launched the careers of many fighters who later excelled in the UFC and other major organizations. LFA’s announcement of Steveson’s signing confirms the organization’s intention to showcase his talents and build his MMA resume gradually.

Steveson’s debut fight on September 12 will attract significant attention from both MMA enthusiasts and wrestling fans eager to see how the former WWE star adapts to the cage environment. While his exact opponent has not yet been disclosed, insiders believe the match will be carefully selected to provide Steveson a competitive but manageable introduction to professional MMA.

“Gable is a rare athlete with a unique backstory,” noted an MMA analyst on a recent combat sports podcast. “His Olympic wrestling credentials give him a tremendous base, but MMA demands striking, conditioning, and versatility. His work with Jon Jones shows he’s serious about learning. It’ll be fascinating to watch his evolution.”

What This Means for Gable Steveson’s Career

Steveson’s MMA debut could be a renaissance for a sportsman who once faced skepticism about his pro wrestling abilities. By returning to a sport closer to his roots, he may rewrite his narrative from “WWE flop” to “MMA contender.” His high-profile Olympic gold continues to provide credibility and marketability, which LFA and later promotions will undoubtedly capitalize on.

This career move also exemplifies a growing pattern of athletes crossing between professional wrestling and MMA. With his background and training, Steveson is positioned well for success if his commitment and adaptation continue positively.

WWE.com and multiple combat sports news outlets have covered Steveson’s transition extensively, reflecting widespread interest across both fanbases. Fightful and PWMania have highlighted the release from WWE and subsequent LFA signing in detailed reports, cementing the fact that Steveson’s MMA journey is a major storyline in combat sports for fall 2025[4][Reference].

In Closing

Gable Steveson’s professional MMA debut on September 12 is a pivotal moment in the career of one of combat sports’ most intriguing young athletes. After Olympic glory and a turbulent WWE run, the 22-year-old is ready to compete in a sport that tests all facets of martial expertise. With a home like Legacy Fighting Alliance supporting his debut, fight fans should prepare for an exciting ride as Steveson redefines his legacy inside the cage.

Reported by a professional wrestling and MMA journalist leveraging exclusive sources including WWE insiders, Fightful interviews, and fan podcasts.

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