This UFC up-and-comer could break through in a big way.
Another year is in the books for the leading promotion in mixed martial arts. With that, focus is turning to a 2026 that promises to be huge for the UFC.
In addition to the UFC’s $7.7 billion broadcast deal with Paramount getting underway in January following the end of the ESPN era, the organization is planning to stage fights at the White House in June.
Jon Jones is targeting a UFC White House comeback, as is Conor McGregor. After both were away from the Octagon in 2025, next year could feature returns for the sport’s leading global name and its longtime pound-for-pound king.
But aside from former champions, top contenders, and established stars, plenty of exciting prospects could make waves in the new calendar year. In that regard, nobody is better placed than Gable Steveson.
Should the UFC sign Gable Steveson?
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Gable Steveson is steamrolling through his opponents
When it comes to the prospect who could make the biggest moves in 2026, some honorable mentions include Aleksandre Topuria, the brother of UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, Payton Talbott, Amru Magomedov, Myktybek Orolbai, and Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaknukov.
But the top spot can only go to one man right now.
Steveson always looked set for a bright future in MMA after becoming the 2020 Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling. Initially, though, his focus was drawn to American football and professional wrestling. Both ventures were a bust for the 25-year-old,…
2025-12-25 21:00:00
