The man, the myth, the almost-WWE Superstar Gable Steveson is stepping back onto the collegiate wrestling mat like a sequel we never knew we needed. The Olympic gold medalist is cashing in his COVID-extended NCAA eligibility for one last ride with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers.
Steveson’s WWE Detour: A Drama in Three Acts
Steveson’s WWE stint was like a wrestling storyline that never got its payoff. He flirted with the squared circle, teased a big debut, but somehow managed to remain a what if?. Now, he’s going back to his roots—amateur wrestling fans are thrilled, while WWE fans might be scratching their heads and wondering, “What happened to that WrestleMania tease?”
According to Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio, this isn’t some spur-of-the-moment pivot. Steveson has been dreaming of an NCAA comeback for years, even cooking up an entrance idea ripped straight from pro wrestling playbooks. Imagine him dramatically unmasking in front of a hyped college crowd. The only problem? WWE reportedly shut it down faster than you can say, “circumstances beyond his control.”
Golden Gophers vs. The World
Steveson’s return to the University of Minnesota isn’t just about reliving his glory days. This is legacy-defining. He’s eyeing his third NCAA Heavyweight Championship, a feat so rare it would place him alongside wrestling legends Dick Hutton and Earl McCready—names that resonate in both amateur and pro wrestling history.
And let’s not forget the almost-scandal: Steveson toyed with attending the University of Iowa, the rival wrestling powerhouse. WWE also allegedly nixed that idea, possibly fearing that Steveson in Hawkeye black and gold would send Vince McMahon into an existential crisis.
What’s Next for Steveson?
Steveson’s decision to return to collegiate wrestling raises questions about his future in WWE—or whether he even has one. For now, though, he’s focused on cementing his name in NCAA history. And with a third heavyweight title on the line, Steveson might just trade his almost-Buffalo Bill gimmick for something even bigger: an undeniable legacy.