Jon Jones’ protege scores third consecutive first-round finish as calls for UFC contract grow

Gable Steveson continued his perfect start to life in professional MMA with a third stoppage victory in a row.

Steveson is emerging as a bright young talent under the stewardship of UFC legend Jon Jones.

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The former Olympic wrestling champion has been hailed as one of future stars to watch in the heavyweight division, and he has been linked with a UFC deal.

So far, the American has made a bright start to life in professional MMA, winning his first two fights in the opening round.

And that impressive streak continued as he stepped into the cage again for his latest meeting with Hugo Lezama in the main event of Mexico Fight League 3.

Steveson’s KO win

Steveson was of course favourite to get the job done against Lezama, but he was forced to come through brief scares.

It was a spinning wheel kick which landed on the US wrestling specialist, who simply walked straight through it trudging forward well.

He then wrestled the momentum in the fight as it went to the ground, and things looked ominous for the Mexican.

The 25-year-old seized his opportunity and landed a series of powerful left hooks, before then unleashing his right hand.

Blow after blow hit the target and the referee decided he had seen enough.

Steveson only cracked a smile, bowling over yet another opponent who was simply no match in the end.

Once again, calls for him to make an appearance in the UFC grew, with his thriving relationship with Jones making it seem inevitable.

When could Steveson fight in the UFC?

For now Steveson, who has pleaded regularly to get his shot in the sport’s premier promotion, is remaining coy.

He had originally called for a potential debut on the UFC’s historic White House card which will take place in June.

It would have possibly seen him compete on the same bill as Jones, but the two-weight champion’s chances of a comeback are now slimmning.

Equally, Steveson’s chances of competing on the card could well now be over, given the full slate has already been decided.

But nonetheless, MMA fans reacting to the KO made a new plea to UFC president Dana White.

One wrote: “The UFC heavyweight division needs Gable Stevenson.”

Another agreed: “He’s the real deal. Sign him up now Dana.”