Here’s a bold statement: Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson is stepping into uncharted territory, and it’s not just about winning—it’s about proving he’s more than a wrestling phenom. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is he biting off more than he can chew with Dirty Boxing? Let’s dive in.
Gable Steveson, the freestyle wrestling champion who took home gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Now, he’s trading the wrestling mat for the boxing ring in his Dirty Boxing debut against Billy Swanson at DBX 4 on October 30. Dirty Boxing isn’t your average match—it’s a hybrid combat sport that blends traditional boxing with elbows and ground-and-pound, making it a true test of versatility. Steveson’s goal? To silence the doubters and prove he’s just as lethal on his feet as he is on the ground.
And this is the part most people miss: Steveson isn’t just dipping his toes into new waters—he’s diving headfirst. In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, he laid it all out: ‘This is the best thing for me because I want to answer all these questions. Can Gable Steveson strike? We’ll see October 30. Can Gable Steveson wrestle? You saw September 12 at LFA… I want people to fear my ground game, my takedowns. But now, I want to show the world, ‘Hey, this guy can box too.’ It’s a bold move, especially after his unsuccessful stints in the WWE and NFL, and a shocking loss to Wyatt Hendrickson at the NCAA finals earlier this year. Yet, Steveson remains undeterred.
His journey back to combat sports has been nothing short of dramatic. After his NCAA upset, he made a splash in his MMA debut last September, scoring a first-round knockout over Braden Peterson at LFA 217. Now, training alongside UFC legend Jon Jones, Steveson is doubling down on his ambition. But here’s the question: Is Dirty Boxing the right platform for him to prove his striking prowess, or is he risking his reputation in a sport that’s still unfamiliar territory?
Controversial take: While Steveson’s wrestling credentials are undeniable, Dirty Boxing’s unique ruleset could expose gaps in his striking game. But isn’t that the point? Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. What do you think—is Steveson making a smart move, or is he setting himself up for another setback? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
