“Ozempic Sponsor Incoming” – Former 525-Pounder Gets Called Out After Massive UFC Debut Win

Steven Asplund wins in his debut fight via TKO against Sean Sharaf and gets a callout from fellow UFC heavyweight rising star.

“Ozempic Sponsor Incoming” – Former 525-Pounder Gets Called Out After Massive UFC Debut Win

Steven Asplund goes viral for wholesome speech (via X)

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UFC Vegas 112, the final ESPN card, took place this weekend inside the Apex Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Brandon Royval and Manel Kape headlined the main event bout, drawing significant attention and excitement. The event felt stacked overall, especially on the preliminary card, where Steven Asplund impressed fans with his heavyweight debut performance. 

Steven Asplund earned his UFC contract through an incredible Dana White‘s Contender Series performance just months ago. In his debut against Sean Sharaf, Asplund delivered on promises, securing a decisive TKO victory emphatically. After the win, Asplund also got a callout from undefeated UFC heavyweight Josh Hokit, who wants all the smoke from Asplund.

Ozempic sponsor incoming… touching words… keep winning… & you will be bullied again…

Josh Hokit via X

Josh Hokit is a former NFL fullback from California, known for elite athleticism and wrestling. His UFC debut came on November 8 of this year when he stopped Max Gimenis by first‑round TKO. Josh is currently booked for his next appearance against fellow heavyweight Denzel Freeman at UFC 324 in January 2026.

Steven Asplund is from Minnesota and gained attention for an extraordinary personal transformation while pursuing an MMA career. At his heaviest, Asplund weighed 525 pounds, living a sedentary lifestyle fueled by extremely high-calorie foods. Health concerns eventually became unavoidable, forcing him to confront dangerous habits that threatened his longevity and overall quality of life.

Inspired by mixed martial arts and personal survival, Asplund committed to training, discipline, and a complete overhaul of his diet. The journey was not smooth, as the pandemic caused setbacks. That time reduced training opportunities, and moments of doubt came his way. Over several years, Asplund successfully lost nearly 300 pounds, a transformation that shocked fans and motivated countless others.

As his body changed, his skills improved to help him to compete seriously on the regional MMA circuit. Asplund built his record, notably competing in LFA and Ignite Fights, becoming well known for knockout finishes. Now competing as a 250+pound heavyweight in the UFC, Asplund represents resilience, discipline, and relentless personal reinvention.

Steven Asplund’s inspiring speech after TKO win at UFC Vegas 112

In round one, Steven Asplund used his size and pressure to back Sean Sharaf toward the fence and landed heavy shots. Sharaf attempted to fire back and survive exchanges, but Asplund’s relentless pressure controlled momentum throughout. In round two, the rising star continued walking Sharaf down, landing combinations, increasing volume, and breaking him down with pace and power.

Steven Asplund beats Sean Sharaf
Steven Asplund beats Sean Sharaf (via X)

Late in the round, he badly rocked Sharaf, and chased him to the mat to finish the bout with strikes at 3:49. During his emotional in-cage interview, Asplund reflected on his journey, aiming to inspire others facing weight struggles or life challenges.

I used to be 525 pounds…To be able to make it to the UFC and have a debut and share it with my father, the most beautiful and wonderful man I know. I was fat, I was bullied my whole life. I just want every other little kid who’s been bullied, or felt like they’re not good enough or worthy. You are, you don’t have to be ashamed of your body. I look disgusting, I know I do. A lot of people have (expletive) to say, but be confident.

Steven Asplund via UFC Vegas 112 post-fight presser

Asplund presents a humble, blue-collar personality, often referencing modest beginnings and parents who worked tirelessly raising three boys. He remains motivational and opened up about mental and physical struggles, encouraging others to take the first step toward healthier lives.

The rising heavyweight fighter shares an especially close bond with his father, frequently crediting him as a major influence on his work ethic. That relationship has shaped his journey, guiding him toward discipline, resilience, and eventual success on MMA’s biggest stage.

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