Gable Steveson breaks silence following stunning 12-second UFC KO loss

Gable Steveson has issued a statement following his stunning 12-second knockout loss to Sean Sharaf, one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Steveson also addressed sexual assault allegations from his college years that resurfaced during fight week, as Sharaf repeatedly invoked the matter during promotional activities.

Steveson and a teammate were arrested in connection with a 2019 sexual assault allegation, but no criminal charges were filed due to insufficient evidence. Sharaf referenced the allegations at the pre-fight press conference and gave Steveson the nickname "loophole," a label that has persisted among fans.

In his statement, Steveson emphasized that he is speaking to people who know him as an athlete, husband, and father. He stated unequivocally: "I did not do anything alleged. I was never charged with a crime and the matter was ultimately dropped by the district attorney. The allegations were not ignored nor brushed aside. They were thoroughly and heavily reviewed as I fully cooperated with law enforcement, including a separate Title IX review. There were no criminal charges, no conviction, and no finding of responsibility against me. The matter was closed and there is no pending legal issue involving me."

Steveson added that his personal attorney conducted an independent investigation and confirmed that even if the law had been different, the outcome would have been the same. He also acknowledged Sharaf's victory, congratulating him on the massive upset.