Gable Steveson Faces Hugo Lezama in MFL 3 Main Event

Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist wrestler turned mixed martial arts prospect, will face his toughest test yet when he meets Hugo Lezama in the main event of Mexico Fight League 3 on February 19 in Monterrey, Mexico.

The bout, set for the Showcenter Complex and streaming live on YouTube, pits the undefeated American heavyweight against a seasoned Mexican fighter. Steveson, 25, enters with a 2-0 professional MMA record, both victories coming by knockout in under two minutes combined. In his debut last September, he stopped Braden Peterson via TKO at 1:38. Two months later, at Anthony Pettis FC 21, Steveson knocked out Kevin Hein with a single punch just 24 seconds into the fight. Those quick finishes have fueled widespread interest in his potential transition to the UFC, where officials have yet to extend a contract.

Lezama, by contrast, brings significant experience with an 11-3 record. The 30-year-old recently defended his Budo Sento Championship heavyweight title in November 2024, securing nine of his wins by stoppage, including five knockouts and four submissions. He has faced notable opposition, such as a decision loss to former PFL fighter Emiliano Sordi. Promotion...