Gable Steveson embodies what it means to be a true champion. His return to the college circuit is more than a personal decision—it’s a statement to the wrestling world
The bright lights and big stages don’t faze him; they fuel him. Whether in Tokyo, Minnesota, or the national championships, Steveson steps onto the mat with one goal: domination.
With each match, he reminds us that champions aren’t just made in the spotlight—they’re made through years of relentless dedication, unwavering belief, and an unshakable confidence that shines brightest when the stakes are highest.
As the 2025 NCAA Division Championships draw near, the wrestling world eagerly awaits Gable Steveson’s performance and post-tournament revelations. His statement has added an element of unpredictability and intrigue to the event.
Will he pin every opponent? Will he announce a shocking career move? Or will he simply exit the mat as one of the greatest NCAA wrestlers ever, leaving everyone to wonder what’s next?
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: Gable Steveson thrives on the big stage, and whatever he has planned is sure to be unforgettable.
Also Read: Gable Steveson (WWE): Bio, Wiki, Age, Career, Height, Weight, Net Worth 2024 and Training
Table of Contents
Gable Steveson: The Return of a Heavyweight Titan
Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson has once again demonstrated why he is one of the most dominant forces in collegiate wrestling.1
Returning to the familiar yet fiercely competitive grounds of the NCAA, Steveson has made it clear that his confidence and skill remain unmatched.
The 285 lbs bracket has seen no shortage of talent, but Steveson’s presence has redefined the landscape, reminding fans and competitors alike that legends never fade.
A Hero’s Homecoming: Return to Minnesota
After his successful stint on the international stage, highlighted by his gold medal performance in the 120 kg category at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Steveson shocked many by returning to the Minnesota college wrestling program in 2024.
For many athletes, Olympic glory marks the pinnacle of their career, but Steveson’s hunger for more led him back to where his rise to superstardom began.
The decision wasn’t just about unfinished business—it was about continuing to build his legacy, inspiring upcoming wrestlers, and demonstrating the blend of elite athleticism and unshakable confidence that defines him.
The Big Ten Stage: Familiar Territory
Kicking off his 2025 campaign, Steveson immediately made waves by clinching his fourth Big Ten heavyweight championship title.
His opponent in the final, Penn State’s formidable Greg Kerkvliet, is no stranger to high-stakes matches, but even he couldn’t stop the Steveson freight train.
While many would buckle under the pressure of defending a title, Gable approached the challenge with his signature calm demeanor.
For him, the bright lights, roaring crowds, and high expectations are not intimidating—they’re energizing. “It’s just a big stadium, I like it, bright lights, it’s cool. I like the bright lights. Been here before. Done this before. Ready to do it again,” Steveson confidently stated post-match.
Mindset of a Champion: Pressure-Free Performance
Perhaps the most striking quality about Steveson is how effortlessly he carries himself under pressure.
As he advances toward the 2025 Nationals, he doesn’t see the stage as a burden but as an extension of his training ground.
In his own words, he’s simply had “a good practice.” This mindset reveals a key component of his success: familiarity breeds confidence.
Having competed and excelled at every level—from high school dominance to Olympic glory—Steveson’s internal narrative focuses on preparation and enjoyment rather than stress.
Gable Steveson’s Collegiate Record
Looking at the numbers, Steveson’s impact is undeniable. Prior to his temporary hiatus, he had already accumulated two NCAA Division I Championship titles in 2021 and 2022.2
Additionally, he finished with a bronze medal in 2019, hinting early on at the greatness he would achieve.
His accolades don’t stop at wins and medals. Steveson has also been honored as a two-time recipient of the Dan Hodge Trophy, often referred to as the Heisman of college wrestling.
This award recognizes the best college wrestler in the USA, and winning it twice cements Steveson’s place among the elite.
Technical Brilliance: What Sets Steveson Apart
Gable Steveson’s wrestling style is a blend of raw power, agility, and strategic precision. Standing 6’1” and weighing in at 285 lbs, his physique is that of a classic heavyweight, but what sets him apart is his surprising speed and fluid movement.
He often utilizes explosive takedowns, quick footwork, and masterful control on the mat. His ability to anticipate opponents’ moves and counter them seamlessly is what makes him a nightmare to wrestle against.
For Steveson, every match is not just physical but mental warfare—he reads his opponents like a seasoned chess player.
Leadership Beyond the Mat: Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond his personal achievements, Steveson has become a beacon of inspiration for young wrestlers nationwide.
His return to collegiate wrestling after Olympic success sends a strong message: there’s always room to grow, learn, and contribute to the sport.
Younger athletes now see him not only as a champion but as a mentor figure. His training ethics, focus, and attitude toward competition offer valuable lessons to aspiring wrestlers dreaming of following in his footsteps.
Rivalries That Define an Era: Kerkvliet and Beyond
The heavyweight bracket has featured its fair share of tough competitors, but few rivalries have drawn as much attention as Steveson versus Penn State’s Greg Kerkvliet.
Their encounters are battles of both skill and strategy, embodying the competitive spirit of collegiate wrestling.
Each match is a chess match, with both athletes adjusting, evolving, and striving to outsmart the other. Steveson’s victories over Kerkvliet are not mere wins; they’re statements of dominance in an era where the heavyweight division is packed with talent.
Gable Steveson’s Legacy
A Name Etched in Wrestling History
As Steveson continues to collect titles, trophies, and accolades, his legacy is already secure.3
Few athletes manage to transcend their sport, but Gable’s charisma, humility, and unmatched talent make him a figure larger than life.
Future generations will study his matches, his mindset, and his approach to competition.
Whether he transitions fully into professional wrestling, MMA, or continues to compete in freestyle wrestling at an international level, Steveson’s impact on collegiate wrestling will be felt for decades.
The Road Ahead: 2025 Nationals and Beyond
With his fourth Big Ten title secured, all eyes are now on the 2025 Nationals. Steveson’s approach remains unchanged—focused, composed, and unbothered by external noise.
His confidence is not arrogance; it is rooted in preparation, experience, and the knowledge that he has faced—and conquered—greater challenges before.
A third NCAA Division I title seems within reach, and if Steveson achieves it, it will further solidify his status as one of the greatest collegiate wrestlers of all time.
The Olympic Afterglow: How Tokyo Shaped Steveson
The Olympic gold medal in Tokyo was more than a career highlight—it was a transformational experience for Steveson.
The international exposure, pressure, and triumph added new dimensions to his skillset. Competing against the best wrestlers in the world prepared him mentally for any situation.
His return to college wrestling shows how he seamlessly integrated that experience, using it as fuel rather than a final destination.
The familiarity he mentions is not just about arenas; it’s about being mentally prepared to face whatever challenge lies ahead.
Also Read: Gable Steveson Sexual Allegations And Controversy Explored: Are The Accusations Correct?
Gable Steveson Hints at Something Big at the 2025 NCAA Division
The Return of a Wrestling Phenomenon
Gable Steveson’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. After announcing his return to collegiate wrestling, Steveson is back where he made a name for himself — the NCAA wrestling mat.
His focus? Securing a third National title while leaving a legacy that solidifies his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
Having made his international debut in 2019, Steveson’s career has been decorated with accolades — from three age-group World titles to a gold medal at the Pan American Championships.
The Minnesota native didn’t stop there. He shocked the combat sports world when he transitioned to professional wrestling by signing with WWE in 2021.
Although his WWE stint ended on an underwhelming note, Steveson’s competitive fire never waned. Now, back in the NCAA scene, he’s made it clear: he’s here to dominate and perhaps surprise everyone.
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A Bold Statement Before the Tournament
At a pre-event press conference ahead of the 2025 NCAA Division Championships, Steveson hinted at something massive that has fans and analysts alike speculating.
He confidently stated:
“I want to finish off the tournament in dominating fashion. I did it for a long time. I can do it again. And I think this year I’m going to do it in such a way that people aren’t even going to fathom what I’m about to do. But I let the wrestling speak for itself.”
Such words from a man known for delivering on his promises sent ripples through the wrestling community. The question on everyone’s mind: What exactly is Gable Steveson planning?
Before delving into possible scenarios, it’s important to recognize Steveson’s dominance in the NCAA. Already a two-time National champion, his technical ability, physical strength, and mental toughness are unmatched.
He blends agility and power in ways rarely seen in heavyweight divisions, often making his opponents look outclassed.
Should he capture his third title, Steveson will join an elite list of multiple-time NCAA champions, further cementing his status as one of the best in college wrestling history.
Gable Steveson: The Olympic Gold Medalist’s WWE Foray
Gable’s career took an unconventional turn after his Olympic success. Following in the footsteps of Kurt Angle, another Olympic gold medalist turned professional wrestler, Steveson inked a deal with WWE in 2021.
He made a high-profile appearance at SummerSlam that year, signaling big plans for his pro wrestling future.
However, despite the fanfare, his time in WWE was short-lived. A televised match in 2024 received lukewarm responses, leading to his departure from the company.
Wrestling pundits and fans speculated that the highly structured nature of WWE might not have aligned with Steveson’s athletic and competitive drive.
Why Returning to the NCAA Was the Right Move
- While his WWE run didn’t pan out as many expected, Steveson’s return to NCAA competition reinvigorated his core fanbase.
- College wrestling offers what WWE could not: raw, unfiltered competition. No scripts, no characters — just pure athleticism.
- Moreover, the decision to come back allowed him to rewrite the narrative. Instead of being remembered solely for an underwhelming stint in sports entertainment, Steveson has redirected focus to where he excels most: amateur wrestling.
- What sets Steveson apart is not just his physical abilities but also his confidence. His public declaration isn’t mere bravado. Historically, whenever Steveson sets a goal, he delivers.
- His Olympic gold was won with a last-second comeback. His previous NCAA titles were earned through sheer dominance.
- His mental game is arguably his most dangerous weapon, psyching out opponents before they even step on the mat.
- Regardless of what he reveals post-tournament, Steveson’s impact on wrestling is already significant. He bridges the gap between amateur and professional wrestling, showing younger athletes that career flexibility is possible.
- He’s also brought increased media attention to NCAA wrestling, which often gets overshadowed by other collegiate sports.
- Additionally, his crossover appeal — from the Olympics to WWE, and possibly to MMA — enhances the visibility of wrestling in general. He’s become a figure that fans from various combat sports can rally behind.
Also Read: Meet Gable Steveson Brother Bobby Steveson: Parents And Family Tree
