Jon Jones weighed in on Gable Steveson's successful UFC 329 debut, calling his performance tremendous. The endorsement from one of the sport's all-time greats adds to the buzz surrounding Steveson's transition to MMA.
Jon Jones was quick to offer his verdict on Gable Steveson's mixed martial arts debut at UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, describing the performance as "tremendous" in a public endorsement that has amplified early excitement around the former amateur wrestling star's professional career.
Jones, known as "Bones," needs little introduction in the sport. The 38-year-old heavyweight holds a professional record of 28-1-0 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. Standing six-foot-four with an 84-inch reach, Jones has built his reputation on a blend of elite striking — landing 4.38 significant strikes per minute at 58 percent accuracy — and a consistent wrestling-based control game that averages 1.89 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Steveson steps into the professional ranks at 26 years old with the kind of amateur wrestling pedigree that immediately draws comparisons to decorated collegiate and Olympic-level athletes. The six-foot-one American enters with an official record of 0-0-0, making UFC 329 the opening chapter of what many expect to be a heavily watched MMA career. A glowing review from a fighter of Jones's stature is a notable early stamp of approval.
Why it matters
- Steveson's debut performance drew praise from one of MMA's most decorated heavyweights, raising his profile heading into future bookings.
- Jones's public endorsement carries weight across the heavyweight division, where any credible new entrant shifts the long-term competitive landscape.
- Steveson's wrestling background makes him a stylistically intriguing prospect, and positive early reviews will drive scrutiny of his standup development as he progresses.
Saturday, July 11, 2026
