Anik On Steveson's UFC Future After 12-Second KO

UFC commentator Jon Anik doubts Gable Steveson will reach double digits in his Octagon career after the Olympic gold medalist was knocked out in 12 seconds at UFC 331.

Steveson entered his fifth UFC bout with a 4-0 record, but Sean Sharaf iced the freestyle wrestling champion before the fight truly began. The loss was made worse by Sharaf's fight week callout over past sexual assault allegations against Steveson. Anik was on commentary for the upset and addressed the setback on Submission Radio, per MMA Junkie.

Steveson Faces Steep Climb After UFC 331 Loss

"I still believe if Gable Steveson gets to 10 UFC fights, he's going to realize a ton of success," Anik said. "But after his UFC debut, which went well, I went on our podcast, I said over-under 10 UFC fights for Gable. I'm not sure he actually gets to 10 fights. This is an appreciable setback."

Anik added that the knockout represents a difficult challenge for Steveson to overcome. Several fighters including Colby Covington, Josh Hokit, and Matt Brown have suggested Steveson move on from training under Jon Jones, though the wrestler has said he wants to expand his team while keeping Jones involved.

Steveson has not commented publicly on his next move following the UFC 331 defeat.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Gable Steveson may not reach 10 UFC fights after devastating setback, says Jon Anik: “It’s a big deal”