Gable Steveson Returning to Minnesota Gophers Yet Again

Sometimes you go from being an NCAA champion to an Olympian, WWE superstar, and NFL hopeful. If that isn’t a crazy enough journey in and of itself, imagine returning to the amateur level after it all. That’s precisely the path that Minnesota Gophers wrestling legend Gable Steveson is taking. He’s back to dominate the mat once again.

Minnesota Gophers get Gable Steveson’s last ride

The last time that Gable Steveson wore a Minnesota Gophers singlet was the 2021-22 season. He was granted an additional year of eligibility due to circumstances stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic. With the landscape having changed since then, he is returning to his amateur roots to crush the souls of the competition once again.

Your attention please… pic.twitter.com/du4gkIIFvx

— Minnesota Wrestling (@GopherWrestling) November 12, 2024

“My name is Gable Steveson. I’m an Olympic champion, two-time NCAA Champion, the first and only two-time Dan Hodge Trophy winner for the heavyweight class. First, I would like to thank the University of Minnesota, for their time and effort for their persistence with me to push me to the man I am today. With all this being said, there is still one thing inside of me that still burns. The burning passion, the competitiveness, the itch to become great again, and add to the legacy of Gable Steveson. Minnesota has given me everything and now it’s my turn to give it right back to them. To put my feet back on the wrestling mat. To be the champ.”

Gable Steveson on his return to Minnesota Wrestling (X)

The laundry list of achievements for Steveson is long. He has an Olmypic gold medal. He drew interest from the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills despite never having played football. He was paid by Triple-H. At this point, in the NIL era, no one believes that collegiate sports are truly amateur level. Steveson knows this as well, and he should rake in endorsement opportunities.

Related: Gophers Legend Gable Steveson Officially Swaps Sports, Signs with Buffalo Bills

After appearing in a preseason game with the Buffalo Bills, Steveson returns to his ridiculous 85-2 collegiate wrestling record. There’s no reason to believe he’ll add another loss to the tally, so a third NCAA championship should be coming to his mantle shortly. Obviously it’s a massive boost to the Gophers wrestling roster, and fans of the sport have a huge name to watch this season.

Related: Koi Perich NIL Number with Minnesota Gophers Revealed

The impact of NIL funds continue to reshape the landscape of collegiate sports. Steveson certainly is ready and willing to compete, but financial implications have to be part of the equation as well. This is his final year of eligibility.