Gable Steveson knocked out in 12 seconds at UFC 331, draws criticism from Dana White and Daniel Cormier

Olympic gold-medalist wrestler Gable Steveson was defeated by Sean Sharaf in a 12-second knockout at UFC 331 in Los Angeles, marking the first loss of his MMA career. Steveson entered the bout as a heavy favorite, with odds as low as -2500, while Sharaf was a double-digit underdog.

UFC chief Dana White said the result was not surprising, noting that “anything is possible when two guys get in there and start fighting” and that the outcome of a fight cannot be predicted in advance.

After the knockout, Steveson left the Octagon before the official decision was announced, a move that drew criticism from fellow fighters. Former champion Daniel Cormier called the behavior “ungrateful” and said a competitor should accept defeat and remain in the arena.

White compared Steveson's reaction to a similar incident involving Forrest Griffin in 2012, suggesting that high expectations can lead to emotional responses.

Sharaf, who had previously endured two knockout defeats, said he respected Steveson and believed the loss would motivate the young fighter to improve.

"I saw him leaving, but I was thinking about this before the fight," Sharaf said. "He just had his first loss. It makes you better. You're going to take a look back, and you can't underestimate people."

The victory improves Sharaf’s record to 5-2, while Steveson’s record falls to 4-1.