Jon Jones believes Gable Steveson has everything needed to become one of the UFC’s biggest stars, and the former two-division champion is determined to help him reach that level.
Steveson impressed in his UFC debut at UFC 329, knocking out Elisha Ellison in the first round to improve to 4-0 in his MMA career.
Jones Sees Himself in Steveson
Speaking on The Ring Magazine’s YouTube channel, Jones said Steveson reminds him of a younger version of himself, but with a stronger support system already in place.
“He’s confident.”
“I say all the time: he’s a lot like me without any of that out-of-the-ring b—— you know.”
“We’re going to keep him at a very high level.”
Jones added that he feels responsible for helping Steveson fulfill his potential.
“I don’t make bad bets. I don’t gamble and I try to follow my heart and my intuition.”
“So, now I have an obligation to see it through, make sure that he’s that sure thing that I believe that he is.”
‘The Perfect Athlete’
Jones also praised Steveson’s character, saying people often mistake his confidence for arrogance.
“He’s humble and when you actually get to know him, he’s a very humble man.”
“Some people may find it arrogant, but he has the mindset of a champion.”
Jones also highlighted Steveson’s discipline outside the cage.
“I mean, he eats clean. He’s a new father. He’s a husband. Doesn’t drink, doesn’t smoke.”
“He’s just the perfect athlete.”