Could the last man to defeat Gable Steveson in a jaw-dropping, last-second upset be the one to challenge him again in the MMA arena? It’s a question that’s sparking excitement and debate in the combat sports world. Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist and one of the most hyped prospects in MMA, is set to make his UFC debut this year, and fans are already buzzing about his potential dominance. But here’s where it gets controversial: Wyatt Hendrickson, the man who pulled off what Daniel Cormier called “the biggest upset in NCAA history,” is hinting at a possible MMA rematch if he decides to step into the cage himself.
Steveson’s transition to MMA has been nothing short of electrifying. With an elite wrestling background and a lightning-fast 25-second knockout in his debut, he’s being hailed as the next big thing—a fighter who could rival even the likes of Jon Jones. Joe Rogan has gone on record saying Steveson’s wrestling prowess is unmatched, except perhaps by Jones himself. But Hendrickson, who stunned Steveson with a last-minute takedown in their wrestling match, believes he could bring a unique challenge to the table. In a recent interview, Hendrickson admitted he’s dipping his toes into jiu-jitsu, though he’s taking a cautious approach. “I respect the sport too much to think I can just walk in and dominate,” he said. Yet, when asked about a potential MMA rematch with Steveson, he didn’t hesitate: “That’d be a pretty epic rematch if you ask me.”
And this is the part most people miss: Hendrickson isn’t the only elite wrestler eyeing MMA. Greg Kerkvliet, a 24-year-old heavyweight and former NCAA champion with multiple wins over Hendrickson, has reportedly signed with management company SuckerPunch, signaling a potential MMA career. Could we see a trifecta of wrestling titans collide in the Octagon? Is Steveson truly destined for greatness, or will someone like Hendrickson or Kerkvliet prove to be his kryptonite?
Fighters like Islam Makhachev and Khamzat Chimaev have shown that superior grappling can dominate MMA, but Steveson’s speed and Olympic pedigree set him apart. Still, Hendrickson’s history of pulling off the unexpected makes him a wildcard. Would their rematch be a clash of titans or a repeat of their wrestling showdown? What do you think—is Steveson unstoppable, or is there room for an upset in his MMA journey? Let us know in the comments below!
LATEST NEWS: Daniel Cormier threatens to ‘kick Jon Jones’ ass’ in real rematch following ‘Jones vs Cormier 3’ announcement (https://bloodyelbow.com/2026/01/05/daniel-cormier-threatens-to-kick-jon-jones-ass-in-real-rematch-following-jones-vs-cormier-3-announcement/)
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say.
LATEST NEWS: Justin Gaethje responds after fans theorize potential staph infection weeks out from UFC 324 (https://bloodyelbow.com/2026/01/06/justin-gaethje-responds-after-fans-theorize-potential-staph-infection-weeks-out-from-ufc-324/)
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Bloody Elbow content each week direct to your mailbox.
