Gable Steveson scores first‑round knockout in UFC 329 debut

Olympic gold‑medalist Gable Steveson made a dominant UFC debut at UFC 329 in Las Vegas, stopping Elisha Ellison by TKO at 2:31 of the first round. The 26‑year‑old heavyweight entered the Octagon with a 3‑0 MMA record, but this was his first fight under the UFC banner. Steveson relied on striking, landing a series of punches and knees that forced the referee to intervene.

Steveson fought with former UFC champion Jon Jones in his corner, a partnership the wrestler said was meant to add a psychological edge. Dana White praised the performance, calling it “incredible” and noting that Steveson “looked like a mixed‑martial‑artist, not a wrestler.” The victory adds a fourth first‑round finish to Steveson’s professional record and positions him as a rising prospect in the heavyweight division.