Gable Steveson’s next step in MMA is now set. He has an opponent and date lined up for his third fight.
The Olympic gold medallist made his pro debut with a quick 98-second KO last September.
He followed that up two months later, knocking out Kevin Hein in just 24 seconds at Anthony Pettis FC 21.
Now, the highly regarded heavyweight prospect will face a much tougher test in his third appearance next month.
Gable Steveson’s upcoming bout
On Sunday, it was revealed that Gable Steveson’s next fight is set for February 19.
The 25-year-old will take on Hugo Lezama at Mexico Fight League 3 in Monterrey.
In its social media announcement post, the MFL called Steveson “the planet’s #1 heavyweight prospect.”
Lezama holds an 11-3 MMA record and represents a significant step up in competition for the American.
The Jon Jones-coached novice had faced opponents with similar experience levels until now.
Before facing the Olympic gold medallist, Steveson’s first two opponents held records of 1-0 and 2-1.
Matt Brown predicts Gable Steveson over Tom Aspinall despite lack of experience
Matt Brown has been vocal in his support for Gable Steveson.
The former UFC fighter went as far as saying he thinks Steveson could beat Tom Aspinall right now, even with the limited experience.
“He could be champion literally today,” Brown claimed.
“If he went in and fought Tom Aspinall or Ciryl Gane or whoever is the champion, I don’t think there’s a chance anyone has against him. Obviously, you always have a chance in MMA, but I think he could be a champion tomorrow.
“I’d pick him to beat the champion today, keeping it real. I wouldn’t put my money against it if they fought tomorrow. I think Aspinall’s best chance would probably be submission.”
Brown then compared Steveson’s potential path to that of Brock Lesnar, who won the UFC heavyweight title in just his fourth professional fight.
He posted on X: “You guys will call me stupid or crazy or other internet dweeb insults, but remember Lesnar did it against a tougher division in just four fights, and Gable is better than Lesnar in my opinion. Heavyweights are different!”
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