MMA’s most promising talent is under the guidance of arguably the greatest UFC fighter ever. Jon Jones described coaching the dynamic 25-year-old Gable Stevenson as almost like “cheating,” calling him a “human cheat code” due to his exceptional abilities.
Stevenson’s wrestling background, highlighted by his gold medal win at the 2020 Olympics, makes him an ideal candidate for learning from a legend like Jones. Jones’ team aims to develop Stevenson into a top-tier fighter who could dominate MMA for years, noting clear similarities between the two athletes.
Despite the partnership, Jones has expressed some reservations about whether his mentorship is the best fit for Stevenson’s career progression. Meanwhile, Stevenson is gearing up for his UFC debut this year after facing challenges with two consecutive first-round knockouts in his initial MMA bouts. His wrestling skills and athleticism already give him a significant edge in the heavyweight category, supported by a strong team.
Brendan Schaub has suggested Stevenson might benefit more from mentors like Demetrius Johnson or Georges St-Pierre, who are known for strong leadership and professionalism both inside and outside the octagon. Schaub acknowledges Jones’ undeniable greatness within the cage but criticizes his less exemplary behavior outside of it.
Stevenson credits his interaction with Jon Jones and observing the respect Jones commands as inspiration to switch to MMA. He admires the raw, one-on-one nature of fighting and aspires to be a dominant champion in the sport.
With Jones’ expertise to draw from, combined with a supportive team behind him, Stevenson is well-positioned to make a significant impact in MMA.
Fan Take: This mentorship between Jon Jones and Gable Stevenson is a thrilling development for fight fans, symbolizing the passing of the torch to the next generation. It highlights the sport’s evolution and the potential for new dynasties to shape MMA’s future landscape.
