In a stunning upset, Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA Heavyweight Champion Gable Steveson lost to Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson at the NCAA Wrestling Championships. The match, held at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center on March 22, 2025, ended with a 5-4 decision, marking one of the biggest surprises in college wrestling history.
Wyatt Hendrickson’s Career-Defining Win
Before the championship match, Steveson was widely expected to win. With an impressive 85-2 collegiate record, three Big Ten titles, and a 52-match winning streak, he was seen as nearly unbeatable. However, Hendrickson had other plans.
Trailing for most of the match, Hendrickson executed a crucial three-point takedown in the final 30 seconds, securing the victory. This moment not only earned him an NCAA title but also solidified his place in wrestling history as the athlete who defeated one of the sport’s greatest.
Is This the End of Steveson’s College Wrestling Career?
After the match, Steveson left his shoes on the mat, a traditional wrestling gesture signaling retirement. While he had previously hinted at stepping away from amateur wrestling, this moment strongly suggests that his collegiate career has come to an emotional close.
With his NCAA journey seemingly over, the big question remains: what’s next for Gable Steveson? Having already explored professional wrestling with WWE and a brief stint with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, many believe he could be gearing up for a move to mixed martial arts (MMA).
Is MMA Steveson’s Next Destination?
Steveson’s strength, speed, and Olympic-level grappling skills make him a prime candidate for a successful MMA career. He has previously praised UFC rising star Bo Nickal, who transitioned from wrestling to professional fighting with great success. Given his athletic ability, Steveson could follow in the footsteps of wrestling legends like Brock Lesnar and Daniel Cormier, who became MMA champions.
If he chooses MMA, top organizations like the UFC will likely be eager to sign him. His name alone would generate major interest, and his elite wrestling background would make him a formidable contender in the heavyweight division.
What’s Next for Gable Steveson?
This loss may be a setback for Steveson, but it could also be the start of an exciting new chapter in his career. Whether he returns to WWE, transitions to MMA, or takes another unexpected path, his future remains bright.
One thing is for sure—Gable Steveson’s journey is far from over. Stay tuned to SportSnip.com for the latest updates on his next move and all the biggest wrestling news!
