Gable Steveson breaks silence after stunning UFC 331 loss, addresses 2019 allegations in lengthy statement - Yahoo Sports

Gable Steveson has broken his silence following the stunning first loss of his professional MMA career.

Steveson released a lengthy statement Tuesday through his manager, Abraham Kawa, addressing his historic 12-second upset at the hands of Sean Sharaf at UFC 331 . The Olympic champion described the defeat as a "mistake on my end" and vowed to respond much like he did following setbacks during his decorated amateur wrestling career.

"Just like my wrestling days after my loss, I came back with an undeniable will to win and focus that led me to the top of my sport. The result of Saturday night, I believe, will catapult me to do the same," Steveson wrote. "I will be great, and this won't deny me."

Steveson also addressed the allegations of sexual assault stemming from a 2019 incident in his college years that resurfaced during UFC 331 fight week.