Sonnen Backs Steveson Return After UFC 331 Loss
Chael Sonnen defends Gable Steveson's future, urging him to prioritize wrestling urgency over resisting the narrative.
Key points
- Chael Sonnen believes Gable Steveson will still become a UFC champion despite the 12-second knockout at UFC 331.
- Sonnen advises Steveson to prioritize wrestling urgency and not resist the narrative of being a takedown specialist.
- Sonnen criticizes Jon Jones for calling Steveson a friend, arguing a corner role requires a more authoritative dynamic.
Chael Sonnen stands by Gable Steveson after the shock loss at UFC 331. The former fighter believes Steveson will still become a UFC champion. This conviction comes despite a 12-second knockout defeat. The fight took place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Steveson faced intense backlash from the crowd. He left the cage before Sean Sharaf had his hand raised. Sonnen says this moment reveals a deeper issue. It is not about the loss, but about how wrestlers enter the sport. He urges Steveson to embrace his wrestling roots with urgency.
Wrestling roots must drive performance
Sonnen argues that wrestlers often fight against their own strengths. They try to prove they can do more than wrestle. This resistance creates a gap in their game. The crowd expects dominance on the ground. If a wrestler ignores this, they give away a decade of training.
The advice is simple: make contact and take the opponent down. Sonnen cites Randy Couture as an example of standing wrestling. But the priority must remain the takedown. Without that urgency, the wrestler spots the opponent years of experience. It is a fundamental error in mindset.
Jones' corner role sparks debate
Jon Jones claimed it was his idea for Steveson to exit early. Sonnen accepts this explanation but criticizes the dynamic. Jones called Steveson a friend. Sonnen believes this relationship is too casual for a corner. A coach needs a father or big brother role.
Friendship does not work in high-pressure environments. If they go out for beers together, Jones cannot be in the corner. The emotional bond is too close. Jones must maintain a strict professional boundary. This separation is crucial for objective decision-making during a fight.
Mentorship and future championship potential
Sonnen respects Jones' effort to take the heat. He sees it as a responsible move. Jones is stepping in front of the situation. This shows sensitivity and leadership. It is a manly act to protect his fighter. Sonnen has seen Jones coach before and was impressed.
Steveson has released a statement about his future. He refuses to be defined by this loss. Sonnen remains a believer in his potential. He sees greatness ahead. The path back requires a shift in approach. It demands a return to core wrestling principles.
