Sharaf Ponders Retirement After Steveson KO

Sean Sharaf is considering retirement after his first-round knockout of Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson at UFC 331 last month.

The heavyweight upset in Los Angeles on Sept. 19 marked the biggest win of Sharaf's career, and he told media afterward he is questioning whether he can top it. "Can I beat that?" Sharaf said, per MMA Mania.

Sharaf's Financial Reality Makes Exit Unlikely

Despite the talk of hanging up the gloves, observers doubt Sharaf will actually step away. MMA Mania noted his financial situation makes a retirement after one signature win unlikely, especially given the earning potential that comes with stopping a high-profile crossover athlete like Steveson.

Sharaf had entered UFC 331 as a significant underdog against the former NCAA champion and Tokyo Olympics freestyle wrestling gold medalist. The knockout shocked the crowd at Crypto.com Arena and immediately raised Sharaf's profile in the heavyweight division.

No timeline has been given for Sharaf's decision on his fighting future. UFC has not announced any upcoming bouts for the heavyweight.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Sean Sharaf ponders retirement after historic Gable Steveson KO: ‘Can I beat that?’