MINNEAPOLIS – Gable Steveson is making a triumphant return.
The celebrated Olympic gold medalist, two-time NCAA champion, and distinguished two-time Hodge Trophy winner Gable Steveson will rejoin the University of Minnesota wrestling team for an impressive fifth season during the 2024-25 campaign, as confirmed by head coach Brandon Eggum on Tuesday.
In his emotional comeback video, Steveson expressed profound gratitude, stating, “First I would like to thank the University of Minnesota for their time, their effort and their persistence with me to push me to the man I am today. Minnesota has given me everything, and now it’s my turn to give it right back to them: to put my feet back on the wrestling mat, to be the champ, one more time.”
Seizing the opportunity to return, Steveson is utilizing NCAA waivers made available due to his Olympic redshirt status and the additional year of eligibility granted in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He is anticipated to make his much-awaited season debut on November 24 against Campbell, igniting excitement among fans.
Coach Eggum applauded Steveson’s dedication, emphasizing, “Gable has the burning desire to compete for the Maroon and Gold one last time. We are thankful he has chosen the opportunity to add to his historic legacy with our program. He is one of the best to ever compete in the sport of wrestling, and we are grateful for the impact he has had on our program.”
With a remarkable track record, Steveson stands as one of the most decorated wrestlers in Minnesota’s storied wrestling history.
As a heavyweight, he is part of an elite group of only six wrestlers in program history to have clinched multiple NCAA championships (2021-22). Furthermore, he is one of eight athletes to seize three Big Ten titles (2020-22) and boasts an impressive distinction as one of just eleven wrestlers to be a four-time All-American (2019-22). His dominance is highlighted by an astonishing career record of 85-2, showcasing the best winning percentage in Gophers history at .977, which includes a flawless 48-0 record in dual competitions and 36-0 against Big Ten adversaries.
Steveson’s impressive victory column includes 13 pins, 22 tech falls, and 25 major decisions, epitomizing his effectiveness on the mat. Recognized as the 2021-22 Big Ten Male Athlete of the Year, Steveson resumes his wrestling career riding an extraordinary 52-match winning streak, having remained undefeated throughout his last three seasons of competition.
In addition to his wrestling achievements, during his hiatus from the University, Steveson ventured into the world of professional wrestling with WWE and briefly trained with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills. He continued to refine his skills with the Gopher Wrestling Club, triumphantly winning the 2023 US Open Wrestling Championships and securing a spot on the U.S. Senior Team ahead of the highly anticipated 2023 World Championships.
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**Interview with Gable Steveson: A Wrestling Icon Returns**
**Editor**: Welcome, Gable! Thank you for joining us today. Your announcement to return to the University of Minnesota wrestling team has sparked immense excitement. How does it feel to be coming back for a fifth season?
**Gable Steveson**: Thank you for having me! It feels incredible to be coming back. Minnesota has been such a big part of my life, and returning to the mat one more time feels like the perfect way to give back to the program that has given me so much.
**Editor**: In your heartfelt comeback video, you expressed gratitude towards the University for its support. Could you elaborate on how the university and your experience there have shaped who you are today?
**Gable Steveson**: Absolutely. The University of Minnesota has been more than just my academic and athletic home; it has been a place of growth for me. The coaches, teammates, and the entire community have pushed me to become not just a better wrestler but a better person. Their belief in me has been a driving force, and I’m excited to repay that faith by competing again.
**Editor**: You’re making your season debut on November 24 against Campbell. What are your expectations for this match and the season ahead?
**Gable Steveson**: I’m feeling really motivated for the season. Coming back, I want to continue to build my legacy and compete at the highest level. My expectations are to show up, perform well, and strive for that championship again. Every match is an opportunity to grow and improve, and I’m ready to embrace it.
**Editor**: Coach Brandon Eggum spoke about your dedication and the impact you’ve had on the program. How do you feel about the legacy you’ve built at Minnesota?
**Gable Steveson**: It’s an honor to be recognized in that way. I’ve always believed in putting in the hard work and effort, and to have achieved so much alongside my teammates is something I’ll cherish forever. I’m looking forward to adding to that legacy this season and showing that I still have what it takes to compete at the elite level.
**Editor**: With all your accolades, including being a two-time NCAA champion and Olympic gold medalist, what drives you to keep competing?
**Gable Steveson**: My love for the sport, plain and simple. Wrestling is a part of who I am. The thrill of competition, the camaraderie with my teammates, and the daily grind are things I genuinely enjoy. I want to leave everything I have on the mat and inspire the next generation of wrestlers to do the same.
**Editor**: Lastly, what message do you have for your fans who are eagerly awaiting your return?
**Gable Steveson**: I want to say thank you for your continued support. It means the world to me. I’m looking forward to getting back out there and giving you all something to cheer for. Let’s make this season unforgettable together!
**Editor**: Thank you, Gable! We can’t wait to see you back in action. Good luck for the season ahead!
**Gable Steveson**: Thank you! Excited to get started!