Olympic Champion Signed With WWE In 2021
Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling, signed with WWE in September 2021, becoming the second Olympic champion to join the company after Kurt Angle. Steveson inked an NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deal with WWE, which allowed him to continue his collegiate wrestling career at the University of Minnesota while also training at the WWE Performance Center. Steveson was drafted to the Raw brand in October 2021, but he did not make his official debut on the main roster.
Steveson Made His In-Ring Debut At NXT The Great American Bash
Steveson made his first appearance in a WWE ring at NXT The Great American Bash on July 30, 2023, where he faced Baron Corbin in a singles match. Steveson showed off his impressive athleticism and strength, dominating Corbin with suplexes and slams. He won the match with a pinfall after hitting a double leg takedown and a jackhammer. The crowd cheered for Steveson, who celebrated his victory with a backflip.
Steveson Was Removed From NXT Roster Shortly After His Debut
However, Steveson’s NXT status became unclear after he was removed from the NXT roster page on WWE.com shortly after his debut. According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there are currently no plans for Steveson in NXT, and he is expected to move to the main roster soon. Meltzer speculated that Steveson’s removal from NXT could be due to WWE’s recent budget cuts, which have affected several NXT talents and staff members.
Steveson Has Not Commented On His NXT Status Yet
Steveson has not commented on his NXT status yet, and it is unknown when he will make his next appearance on WWE television. He has been busy with his collegiate wrestling career, as he is aiming to win his third NCAA Division I National Championship in 2022. He is also preparing for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where he hopes to defend his gold medal. Steveson has expressed his desire to become a dual-sport star, balancing his wrestling and WWE careers.
Steveson Is Considered One Of The Most Promising Talents In WWE
Steveson is considered one of the most promising talents in WWE, as he has a rare combination of charisma, athleticism and skill. He has drawn comparisons to Brock Lesnar, who was also a NCAA champion and an Olympic wrestler before joining WWE. Steveson has received praise from several WWE legends, such as Kurt Angle, Triple H and John Cena. He has also been mentored by Paul Heyman, who is Lesnar’s advocate and a master of the microphone. Steveson has the potential to become a major star in WWE, if he can overcome the challenges of transitioning from amateur wrestling to professional wrestling.
