Jon Jones says he moved Gable Steveson out of the cage after his quick knockout
Jon Jones explained on social media that he escorted Gable Steveson to the back of the arena immediately after the fighter’s 12-second knockout at UFC 331, saying it was his decision to ensure his safety.
Gable Steveson was knocked out 12 seconds into the first round of his UFC 331 bout with Sean Sharaf, a result that ended his status as a 25-to-1 betting favorite. After the referee stopped the fight, Steveson left the cage before the official announcement, prompting boos from the audience at Crypto.com Arena.
Jon Jones, who has been mentoring Steveson since the wrestler’s transition to mixed-martial arts, posted on X on Monday that he had taken the fighter directly to the back of the arena. > "I’ve seen some reports (online) and I really wanted to clear the air," Jones wrote. > "It was my decision to take Gable straight to the back after the fight. Honestly it was the first time in this situation for me and my instant reaction was to get my friend to the back to make sure he was (OK). Gable’s work ethic and will to win is there and I stand by him and believe he will go on to be one of the best heavyweights in the UFC. He will be back I’m sure of it."
Sharaf’s knockout became the third-fastest finish in UFC heavyweight history. Jones had earlier streamed his drive to the arena with Steveson, expressing confidence in another easy victory.