Jon Jones rarely confesses to being at a disadvantage, but following Gable Steveson‘s dominating MMA debut, he did. The former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion referred to his protégé as a “human cheat code.” . The Olympic gold medalist’s smooth transition is already changing the heavyweight landscape, and Jones’ rare praise shows how quickly he is making an impact.

The former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion could not contain his emotions following Gable Steveson’s spectacular MMA debut at LFA 217. ‘Bones,’ who shared a series of photos with Steveson and the coaching team inside the cage, joked that working with an athlete like Steveson is almost unfair.

“Feels like cheating” – Jon Jones on Gable Steveson’s athletic abilities

“Coaching is always rewarding… But let’s be honest, when the athlete is @Gable Steveson, it feels like cheating. Man’s a human cheat code, and we just get to hold the controller,” he wrote, showing how much he respects his protégé. And Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist and two-time NCAA champion, wasted little time proving that his wrestling background translates perfectly into mixed martial arts.

On his very debut fight, he secured a takedown after 15 seconds, dominated his opponent on the mat, and forced a referee stoppage just 99 seconds into the first round. Jon Jones’ excitement after the battle was evident as he complimented Steveson, calling him a star born for the sport.

It wasn’t a passing remark. Jon Jones‘ “cheat code” statement reveals a deeper truth regarding the 25-year-old’s advantages in the Octagon. Few athletes combine Olympic-level wrestling, athleticism, and discipline at such an early age. And his flawless execution during the fight confirmed that his training with one of the greatest fighters of all time had given him an advantage.

So, as expected, Steveson responded to Jones’s post with gratitude, writing, “My guy, Thank you for being there! Here’s to more!” His response perfectly highlighted the importance he places on Jon Jones’ mentorship. Together, they appear to be forming something bigger than a conventional coach-athlete relationship—an alliance that is rewriting expectations for newcomers entering MMA’s toughest stages. In fact, ‘Bones’ believes his protégé has the ‘perfect formula’ for MMA greatness.

Jones reveals Gable Steveson’s traits that make him a future GOAT

Jon Jones wasn’t shy about pointing out what distinguishes Gable Steveson from other budding MMA stars. While Steveson’s inaugural victory was impressive in and of itself, ‘Bones’ emphasized the Olympic gold medalist’s rare blend of athleticism, intelligence, and discipline. “He’s a freak athlete,” Jones stated, predicting that the MMA audience will soon admire Steveson in the same way that the wrestling community does.

According to ‘Bones’, the 25-year-old’s abilities go beyond mere physical talent. “He’s incredibly fast. He’s powerful. He’s intelligent. He has the work ethic. And he’s shown our team, Greg Jackson and I, Brandon Gibson and I, that he’s willing to humble himself and surround himself with the best,” Jones explained. Steveson’s desire to learn and adapt, along with his exceptional wrestling experience, provides a unique foundation for MMA success.

Perhaps most impressively, the former heavyweight champion emphasized Steveson’s ability to incorporate boxing into his wrestling-based approach. “And I think he has the perfect formula to go all the way to the top. And some,” Jones added, emphasizing that Steveson’s combination of skills, mindset, and determination has the potential to make him a future GOAT. So, do you see him as a massive star in the making? Let us know in the comments.