Gable Steveson’s return to college wrestling was supposed to be a dominant encore, but things haven’t gone as planned. Fresh off a shocking loss to Wyatt Hendrickson at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships by 5-4, ending Steveson’s 70-match winning streak. But it seems Hendrickson is not done yet. How, you may ask. Well, the Olympic gold medalist just took another hit—this time off the mat. With a whole new turn, it seems like the NCAA Division I finals’ drama is far from over.
Gable Steveson, a name synonymous with dominance in collegiate wrestling, recently faced a surprising setback. Known for his Olympic gold medal and two NCAA titles, Steveson’s return to the mat was highly anticipated. However, Steveson tried other sports like WWE and NFL, but his love for wrestling and to give closure to the Minnesota Gopher, he came back. Gable Steveson made his highly anticipated return to collegiate wrestling on November 22, 2024, competing against North Dakota State University (NDSU), and contributed to the Gophers’ impressive 39-0 shutout over NDSU. The 24-year-old’s list of achievements is seemingly never-ending, yet he was not even considered a prospect for a sought-after trophy, but guess what! His recent rival shines bright among the list of potential awardees. Yikes!
As per Intermat Wrestle, Gable Steveson is not on the finalist list of the Dan Hodge Trophy 2025. This loss was more than just a blemish on his impressive record; it had immediate repercussions. Steveson, who had previously been a frontrunner for collegiate wrestling’s most prestigious individual honor, found himself omitted from the list of finalists. The finalists announced were Mitchell Mesenbrink, Carter Starocci, and Wyatt Hendrickson, the wrestler who had bested Gable Steveson.
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The omission was unexpected, especially considering Steveson’s prior accolades. His Olympic triumph and back-to-back NCAA championships had solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s greats. Yet, this recent defeat and subsequent exclusion from the award’s finalists highlight the unpredictable nature of sports and the fine margins that separate victory from disappointment. Coming back to the Dan Hodge Trophy, when and how will the final result be declared?
So, basically, the winner of the Dan Hodge Trophy will be declared based on the votes that are currently underway and will remain open until 6 p.m. EDT on Friday, March 28. Fans can cast their votes on WIN Magazine’s official website. The winner is scheduled to be announced at 1 p.m. EDT on March 31.
Though Steveson addressed the defeat situation in NCAA wrestling with characteristic grace, stating, “We live for moments like these.” His response underscores a resilience that has defined his career, suggesting that setbacks are merely setups for future comebacks. But can this be counted as the declination point for NCAA champion?
Is this the decline of Gable Steveson’s career?
Gable Steveson, once considered nearly untouchable on the mat, suffered a major setback with his loss to Wyatt Hendrickson—a result that few saw coming. The Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time NCAA champion had dominated his opponents with an air of invincibility, but Hendrickson’s victory has shifted the narrative. With questions now swirling about Steveson’s form and future, fans are left wondering if this marks the beginning of his downfall or just a temporary stumble.
Amid the speculation, Steveson took to social media, hinting at his next step with a cryptic post: “On to what’s next.” The message, though brief, has sparked a wave of discussion—does this mean a return to professional wrestling, another shot at international competition, or even a shift away from the sport altogether? His decision will undoubtedly shape how this chapter of his career is remembered. This subtle yet powerful message of Steveson has led to speculation about a potential comeback, possibly with his sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Olympic Games, Olympische Spiele, Olympia, OS 2021 FS 125kg Gable Dan STEVESON USA df. Aiaal LAZAREV KGZ Tokyo Makuhari Messe Hall Japan *** Olympic Games 2021 FS 125kg Gable Dan STEVESON USA df Aiaal LAZAREV KGZ Tokyo Makuhari Messe Hall Japan Copyright: xUnitedxWorldxWrestlingx/xKadirxCaliskanx cal
As the debate continues, one key question remains: Will Steveson step back onto the wrestling mat to silence the doubters? Fans are left waiting for a definitive statement on whether he will chase redemption or if Hendrickson’s victory will serve as a turning point in his storied career.
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