DONE DEAL:FORMAL OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST SHOCKS THE SPORTS WORLD, TRADING MMA FOR THE NFL WITH BILLS.
In a stunning move, Olympic gold medalist and wrestling phenom Gable Steveson has announced his decision to forgo a career in mixed martial arts (MMA) and instead join the National Football League (NFL) with the Buffalo Bills.
Steveson, who was widely expected to pursue a career in MMA after his impressive performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, has signed a three-year contract with the Bills. The deal, a standard rookie contract, marks a significant shift in Steveson’s athletic trajectory.
The 22-year-old wrestler, who won the NCAA Division I heavyweight title in 2021, will now turn his attention to the gridiron, where he is expected to play defensive line for the Bills. Despite having no prior experience playing football, Steveson’s athleticism and physicality are believed to make him an attractive prospect for the team.
Steveson’s decision to join the NFL comes as a surprise to many, given his success in wrestling and the expectation that he would follow in the footsteps of other Olympic wrestlers turned MMA fighters, such as Ronda Rousey and Daniel Cormier. However, Steveson has long been fascinated by football and has reportedly been in talks with the Bills for several months.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Buffalo Bills and pursue my dream of playing in the NFL,” Steveson said in a statement. “I know it won’t be easy, but I’m ready to put in the work and learn from the best.”
The Bills, who finished 11-6 last season and lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, are looking to bolster their defensive line and believe Steveson’s raw talent and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect.
While Steveson is expected to be a practice squad candidate, his signing has generated significant buzz in the sports world, with many fans and analysts eager to see how the wrestling phenom will fare in the NFL.
Only time will tell if Steveson’s gamble will pay off, but one thing is certain – the sports world will be watching with bated breath as this Olympic gold medalist turned NFL rookie looks to make his mark on the gridiron.
