Gable Steveson, a highly touted prospect with impressive amateur wrestling credentials including an Olympic gold medal and multiple NCAA championships, entered WWE with immense expectations, often compared to the legendary Kurt Angle. However, his tenure with the company proved to be a significant disappointment, culminating in his release in May 2024. Unlike Angle, who seamlessly transitioned into professional wrestling and captivated audiences, Steveson failed to connect with the WWE fanbase, leaving many perplexed by his inability to replicate Angle’s success. His release prompted Steveson to explore alternative athletic pursuits, including a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills in the NFL and a return to amateur wrestling at the University of Minnesota. Despite the setback, wrestling icon Kurt Angle remains a staunch supporter of Steveson, expressing belief in his athletic abilities and future prospects, regardless of the path he chooses.
Angle, in a recent interview, acknowledged Steveson’s remarkable athleticism and expressed uncertainty about the circumstances surrounding his WWE departure. He refrained from speculating on the reasons behind the release, emphasizing his limited personal interaction with Steveson. However, Angle’s unwavering faith in Steveson’s potential for success in any chosen field underscores the young athlete’s raw talent and resilience. Angle, himself an Olympic gold medalist, has consistently championed the cause of Olympic athletes, even establishing a charity to provide financial support, allowing them to prioritize their training without financial burdens. This history of support highlights Angle’s genuine admiration for Steveson’s athletic prowess and his desire to see him thrive.
While some attribute Steveson’s struggles in WWE to a lack of charisma and the presence of a similar character in Chad Gable, a deeper analysis reveals more complex factors contributing to his downfall. Past sexual assault allegations from his time at the University of Minnesota, though ultimately not pursued by the county attorney, undoubtedly cast a shadow over his WWE career, impacting fan perception and potentially affecting his push within the company. This negative publicity, coupled with his perceived lack of charisma and the already established presence of Chad Gable, an Olympian with a strong amateur background fulfilling a similar role, created a challenging environment for Steveson to establish himself.
The comparison to Kurt Angle, while initially flattering, ultimately proved detrimental to Steveson. Angle’s unique blend of athleticism, charisma, and in-ring psychology allowed him to seamlessly transition between roles, captivating audiences as both an arrogant heel and a lovable goofball. Steveson, in contrast, struggled to project a compelling persona, often appearing indifferent or unengaged, which hindered his ability to connect with the WWE universe. Furthermore, Gable’s existing presence as a technically gifted wrestler with an amateur pedigree effectively filled the niche that Steveson was expected to occupy, further diminishing his opportunities and contributing to his eventual release.
The confluence of these factors – the lingering impact of past allegations, the lack of a captivating persona, and the presence of a comparable performer in Chad Gable – created an insurmountable hurdle for Steveson in WWE. While his athletic abilities were undeniable, the other crucial elements necessary for success in professional wrestling remained elusive. His failure to resonate with the audience, compounded by the pre-existing negative perception stemming from the allegations, ultimately sealed his fate within the company. Unlike Angle, who organically connected with fans through his multifaceted persona and compelling storylines, Steveson struggled to find his footing and establish a distinct identity within the WWE landscape.
Despite the disappointment of his WWE tenure, Gable Steveson’s athletic journey continues. His exploration of other sports, such as his brief foray into the NFL and his return to the familiar ground of collegiate wrestling, demonstrates his resilience and determination to pursue athletic excellence. While his professional wrestling aspirations may have stalled, his future remains open to various possibilities. The support of figures like Kurt Angle, who recognize his exceptional athleticism and potential, offers a glimmer of hope for Steveson’s future endeavors, regardless of the path he ultimately chooses. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities of professional wrestling, where athletic prowess alone is not sufficient for success. The ability to connect with audiences, cultivate a compelling persona, and navigate the often-turbulent waters of public perception are equally crucial for longevity and achieving stardom in the world of sports entertainment.
