In a headline that might just make you do a double take, is Gable Steveson missing time soon?
The same Gable Steveson who only JUST debuted on NXT.
One and the same.
The entire saga of the Olympic and collegiate champion has been pretty well documented.
He came in with as much hype as just about anyone else in WWE history…probably not the best pressure to have.
Fans saw him show up on the Grandest Stage of Them All and get physical.
And we have not seen him much since.
Every so often, we would get stories about Gable.
One would say folks were disappointed in his progress and we’d not see him for a while.
Then, just as soon, we’d see news indicating that Triple H was pleased with his progress.
And then, just like that, Steveson-a former RAW draftee-showed up on NXT.
Ironically enough, to be in the corner of his brother’s opponent.
While that all worked out well enough…
Gable Steveson Missing Time Soon?
And, so quick after his arrival in NXT?
The answer is yes, but with good reason and this was likely part of the plan.
Per the Wrestling Observer, Steveson is expected to take time off in the near future to prep for upcoming amateur wrestling competition.
Specifically, he has qualified to be on Team USA for the 2023 World Championships in Belgrade, happening in September.
On top of that, it was recently confirmed that, if WWE allows him, Steveson was granted an additional year of NCAA wrestling eligibility.
Big Match Returning On NXT
While WWE surely wants to get Steveson in the ring and on television as much as possible and as soon as possible…the company will surely want to do what it can to honor Gable’s wishes too.
The other wild card in all of this, possibly? Steveson has expressed interest in qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
It seems we might see some sporadic NXT appearances by the Golden Gopher, but I’d bet WWE allows him to take advantage of any and all remaining amateur and Olympic opportunities.
Given what fans saw out of him at NXT Underground…whenever he’s a full time WWE talent, the rest of the roster will be on notice.
