Jon Jones says he escorted Gable Steveson backstage after knockout loss at UFC 331
Jon Jones explained on social media that he moved Gable Steveson to the medical area immediately after the fighter was knocked out in the opening round of his UFC 331 bout.
Jon Jones said he decided to take Gable Steveson backstage right after the latter was knocked out in the first round of his UFC 331 fight against Sean Sharaf. The knockout occurred 12 seconds into the opening round, and Steveson left the octagon for medical attention before the official decision was announced.
Jones posted on Twitter that his immediate reaction was to ensure his friend’s safety, adding that it was his first time handling a situation like this. He also expressed confidence in Steveson’s work ethic and future prospects in the heavyweight division.
"I’ve seen some reports online and I really wanted to clear the air. It was my decision to take Gable straight to the back after the fight," Jones wrote. "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."
Steveson, a former Olympic gold-medal wrestler, entered the UFC with a 4-0 record, all wins coming by first-round stoppage, before suffering the loss at the event.