Tyron Woodley Backs Gable Steveson To Challenge Tom Aspinall in UFC Heavyweight Division
Gable Steveson has not yet fought inside the UFC Octagon, but expectations around his future continue to grow rapidly. The two-time gold medalist and former world champion wrestler is one of the most anticipated newcomers to the heavyweight division, and some are already speculating on how fast he will climb the ranks.
Steveson has already shown promising results in his early pro career. He is currently undefeated in his first three bouts of professional mixed martial arts, and also recently claimed a quick knockout win in a Dirty Championship Boxing fight. This has secured him a spot with the UFC, making him one of the most anticipated talents in the game.
While many fans think Steveson needs more time to grow before he’s ready to take on top-tier fighters, former UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley sees things differently.
Tyron Woodley Makes Bold Prediction
Woodley strongly backed Steveson’s prospects. He thinks that the young heavyweight already possesses the skills to be a UFC champion and even hinted that he would be a threat to the current champion, Tom Aspinall.
Woodley stated that Gable is capable of becoming a heavyweight champion and could reach that level as early as this year if he chooses to stay active. He added that Aspinall would struggle against Steveson right now because of the challenger’s elite wrestling, natural athleticism, and improving striking ability.
Woodley stated, “Gable Stevenson will become heavyweight champion. He can do it this year if he wants to. Tom Aspinall will get tortured by Gable right now. Tom looked sloppy against Ciryl Gane before he got poked in the eye. Gable has got powerful hands; all his fights are finishes. He has crazy wrestling, crazy athletic ability.
He further explained that Steveson possesses dangerous power in his hands, has finished his fights convincingly, and combines that offense with world-class grappling skills. According to Woodley, there is currently no matchup in the UFC heavyweight division that Steveson cannot win.
Why Steveson Is Generating So Much Buzz
Steveson’s wrestling background is a major reason behind the excitement surrounding his UFC arrival. Few heavyweights enter MMA with Olympic-level credentials, and that kind of pedigree often creates immediate interest.
Beyond wrestling, Steveson has also shown explosiveness, speed, and physical gifts rarely seen in fighters his size. His early knockout victories suggest he may become more than a one-dimensional grappler, making him an even more dangerous long-term threat. At only the beginning of his MMA career, many analysts believe his ceiling could be extremely high if his striking and defensive skills continue to improve.
Tom Aspinall Remains the Standard
Despite Tyron Woodley’s comments, Tom Aspinall remains one of the most respected heavyweights in the world. Aspinall is a complete fighter, combining sharp striking, quick movement, and strong all-around skills.
Aspinall has yet to fight since his prematurely ended bout with Ciryl Gane in Oct. 2025. He has reportedly had surgery on both eyes and is confident he will be back to full health soon. Aspinall’s absence means the heavyweight division continues to progress. Interim title contenders Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira will face off at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14.
What’s Next For Steveson
Steveson’s official UFC debut opponent is yet to be revealed. UFC CEO Dana White said last week that matchmakers are looking for a fight based on his level of experience. Whether he gets the build-up or the quick start, the publicity for his first fight will be enormous. Until then, the fans must wait and see if Gable Steveson is the next great champion.
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