Prior Lake, Minnesota — Olympic champion Gable Steveson is preparing to step into the professional MMA world for the first time at LFA 217, hosted at Mystic Lake Casino. The 25-year-old will face Braden Peterson, a rising heavyweight with a 1-0 record, in a bout that has generated significant attention among fight fans. The event will be available to stream live on UFC Fight Pass.
Transitioning from Wrestling to MMA
Steveson’s athletic career has been marked by remarkable achievements. He claimed Olympic gold in freestyle wrestling at the Tokyo 2020 Games and earned two NCAA Division I Heavyweight titles. Following a brief tenure in WWE, he also had a short stint with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills in 2024, despite limited experience in football. Now fully committed to MMA, Steveson has been training under the mentorship of coach Brandon Gibson, alongside guidance from UFC legend Jon Jones.
Coach Confident in Steveson’s Potential
Brandon Gibson, who has extensive experience working with elite fighters including Jon Jones, has expressed strong confidence in Steveson’s future in MMA. Gibson describes Steveson as exceptionally disciplined, humble, and athletic, emphasizing that he has the skill set necessary to rise to the top of the heavyweight division.
Looking Ahead
Steveson’s debut at LFA 217 represents a critical first step in what many anticipate will be a notable career in MMA. With his wrestling background and the high-level coaching environment, he is positioned to make an immediate impact in the heavyweight ranks.
