Gable Steveson Secures First-Round TKO at Mexico Fight League 3

Gable Steveson defeated Hugo Lezama via first-round TKO at Mexico Fight League 3 in Monterrey, Mexico, on Thursday. The stoppage occurred at the 3:50 mark of Round 1.

Steveson, an Olympic champion wrestler, utilized his grappling prowess and patient striking to dominate the bout.

Steveson displayed a strategic approach throughout the fight, effectively using takedowns against Lezama. He demonstrated patience, allowing Lezama to return to standing positions and carefully choosing his striking opportunities.

The decisive sequence unfolded after Lezama attempted a spinning wheel kick during a stand-up exchange. Steveson quickly secured another takedown, leading to ground-and-pound that ultimately forced the stoppage.

Steveson's Rapid Ascent in Combat Sports

This victory marks Steveson's first appearance of 2026. It follows a dynamic 2025, where he secured three knockout wins across multiple combat sports disciplines. His professional MMA debut was in September with LFA, followed by a blistering 15-second knockout in Mike Perry's Dirty Boxing in October, and a 24-second knockout at Anthony Pettis FC 21 in November.

UFC Ambitions and Elite Pedigree

Steveson has openly expressed a strong desire to compete in the UFC, and UFC CEO Dana White has indicated the promotion's interest once Steveson gains more experience.

An accomplished athlete, Steveson is a two-time NCAA Division I national champion and 2020 Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling. He previously had stints with the NFL's Buffalo Bills and WWE before making his full transition to MMA in 2025, where he currently trains with former UFC champion Jon Jones.

Mexico Fight League 3: Full Results

• Heavyweight: Gable Steveson def. Hugo Lezama via TKO (punches) at 3:50 of R1
• Welterweight: Edgar Escarrega def. Irving Cardona via submission (triangle choke) at 1:17 of R3
• Bantamweight: Alexandro Bravo def. Luis Solorzano via unanimous decision
• Bantamweight: Matias Molero def. Ricardo Hurtado via TKO (strikes) at 4:26 of R1
• Lightweight: Emanuel Arzola def. Gael Resendiz via unanimous decision

• Heavyweight: Renzo Aldave def. Hector Negroe via TKO (injury) at :57 of R1
• Bantamweight: Omar Diaz def. Luis Piñango via TKO (punches) at 4:26 of R1
• Catchweight: Jharely Reyes def. Carolina Rojas via unanimous decision
• Welterweight: Kevin Arreola def. Kevin Villareal via TKO (punches) at 2:29 of R1
• Flyweight: Kevin Rodriguez def. Roberto Morales via unanimous decision