Sean Sharaf reacts to historic UFC 331 upset knockout over Gable Steveson: ‘I shocked the world’

Sean Sharaf pulled off one of the biggest upsets in UFC history at UFC 331, knocking out Gable Steveson in just 12 seconds with a pair of punches in the opening round. Despite being a 12-to-1 underdog, Sharaf showed unwavering confidence heading into the bout against the Olympic and NCAA wrestling champion, who many had pencilled in as a future heavyweight title contender. Steveson entered the octagon as a heavy favorite, while Sharaf was winless in two prior UFC appearances.

After the stunning victory, Sharaf told reporters he hadn't allowed the magnitude of the upset to sink in yet. "I was just treating this like every other fight. I don't put anyone on a pedestal," he said. "He has two hands, two legs, and he bleeds red, so I guess I shocked the world, but I haven't felt any different."

Sharaf had drawn attention during fight week by publicly discussing Steveson's past, including a 2019 arrest on suspicion of sexual assault while wrestling for the University of Minnesota—charges for which Steveson was not criminally charged due to insufficient evidence. The comments appeared to affect Steveson's reception from the Los Angeles crowd, and things worsened when Steveson left the octagon before the official result was announced. Sharaf, however, took a measured view of his opponent's reaction, noting that losses serve as learning experiences and that Steveson possessed considerable talent.

"I told you the game plan was hit, don't get hit, leave with a bag full of cash," Sharaf said. "Everyone thought I was joking, but I'm just grateful. I prayed so hard, I believed in myself, my team believed in me and I'm so happy for this moment."