Joe Rogan Reveals Major Worry for Heavyweight Prospect Gable Steveson’s Potential UFC Move

Joe Rogan talks about the uncertainty of top level competition in the UFC heavyweight division for Gable Steveson's potential debut.

Joe Rogan Reveals Major Worry for Heavyweight Prospect Gable Steveson’s Potential UFC Move

Joe Rogan poses hindrances for Gable Steveson's UFC career (via FOX, Instagram)

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The UFC heavyweight division was once the promotion’s most dynamic weight classes. Early eras were defined by Mark Coleman, Bas Rutten, and Randy Couture, setting the competitive standard. However, in recent years, that depth has thinned significantly across the roster and rankings. UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently highlighted the issue while discussing a potential UFC move for Gable Steveson.

The decline became more pronounced following Francis Ngannou’s departure to the PFL, a move centered on free agency and increased pay. His exit removed a reigning champion from the UFC roster. Soon after, Jon Jones captured the vacant title, and briefly stabilized the division. That momentum faded as Jones entered another period of inactivity after defending the belt only once.

Additional disruption followed when the heavyweight title fight between champion Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane failed to deliver a decisive outcome at UFC 321. The contest was ruled a no-contest after a double eye poke from Gane stopped the bout in the opening round. Combined with previous departures and inactivity, these events contributed to the concerns Rogan recently outlined.

The heavyweight division is so shallow right now. You got Tom Aspinall, Ciryl Gane, Jon Jones if he chooses to fight again, Francis Ngannou if the UFC brings him back. Other than that, no one compelling, like a championship-caliber fighter. There’s basically four or five guys on earth that are in this championship-caliber class.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

Outside the UFC, Steveson has emerged as one of the most intriguing heavyweight athletes in combat sports. An elite wrestler by background, Steveson has recorded victories in Dirty Boxing. His transition to striking-based formats has drawn attention across the industry. Rogan has identified him as a potential disruptor, noting how his athletic profile could challenge UFC heavyweights.

At the same time, uncertainty surrounds the possible returns of Jones and Ngannou. UFC CEO Dana White has publicly dismissed speculation that Ngannou will rejoin the promotion due to past conflicts. Jones has expressed interest in returning for a proposed UFC White House event. White has rejected that idea, citing Jones’ extended inactivity and long-standing reliability and scheduling issues.

Joe Rogan’s assessment, however, may not fully capture the division’s emerging depth. Waldo Cortes-Acosta has established himself as a dangerous presence, competing five times in 2025 and maintaining rare activity for a heavyweight. He is scheduled to face Derrick Lewis at UFC 324. Alongside Gable Steveson’s rise, these developments suggest the division remains thin, but not devoid of new threats.

Gable Steveson discuss the rise of Real American Freestyle on Joe Rogan’s podcast

Real American Freestyle has positioned itself as a modern platform for elite-level wrestling outside traditional amateur systems. The promotion has attracted crossover talent from MMA, including UFC fighters Arman Tsarukyan, Yoel Romero, and Bo Nickal. Their participation has helped increase visibility and legitimacy. RAF continues to blend high-level competition with professional presentation.

Joe Rogan and Gable Steveson on RAF
Joe Rogan and Gable Steveson on RAF (via Instagram, JRE)

Gable Steveson’s involvement reflects his deep roots in freestyle wrestling and long-term commitment to the sport. An Olympic gold medalist, Steveson has remained active in discussions around wrestling’s evolution. His recent appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast brought attention to RAF’s impact on the wrestling community. The discussion focused on opportunity, exposure, and sustainability for wrestlers.

Wrestling needs a a real way to go out there and be something big and I think they have a really good one now with RAF. It’s American Freestyle and they are trying and they are trying really well. I like it and I think it might work if it keeps going the way it is.

Gable Steveson via JRE MMA Show #172 

Steveson’s continued alignment with Real American Freestyle highlights the promotion’s growing relevance. His presence connects Olympic-level credentials with broader combat sports audiences. RAF’s expanding roster and visibility signal a shift in how wrestling can be marketed and supported. Together, Steveson and RAF represent a push toward long-term structural growth.

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