LAS VEGAS – Gable Steveson’s $20 million UFC debut carries historic odds. A -2166 favorite. A potential disaster.
Elisha Ellison is the man standing opposite this one-time Buffalo Bills hopeful at UFC 329. The heavyweight prelim at T-Mobile Arena on July 11 pits Olympic gold medalist against a 5-2 fighter with one UFC loss. Ellison dismisses the hype. He told Sherdog this week that Jon Jones’ mentorship won’t help Steveson inside the Octagon. “Jon Jones won’t help Gable Steveson inside the Octagon,” Ellison said.
Steveson (3-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) called Ellison the “perfect debut opponent” at Wednesday’s pre-fight news conference. Data suggests otherwise.
| Fighter | Record | UFC Experience | Betting Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gable Steveson | 3-0 (0-0 UFC) | None | -2166 |
| Elisha Ellison | 5-2 (0-1 UFC) | 1 fight (decision loss) | +1200 |
The -2166 line means a $2,166 bet wins $100. It’s among the largest favorites in UFC history. Steveson told MMA Junkie he ignores the numbers. History says upsets happen. Ellison’s only UFC loss came via decision. He has nothing to lose.
Steveson’s NFL dream faded after a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills. His wrestling pedigree is undeniable – Olympic gold in 2020. But MMA is different. Ellison’s ground game and durability could exploit Steveson’s inexperience. The Jon Jones connection is a double-edged sword. Jones’ unique style may not translate to a live opponent with a simpler game plan.
This fight is a high-wire act. If Steveson wins, he validates the $20 million investment and his NFL-to-UFC journey. If Ellison pulls off the upset, it will be remembered as one of MMA’s biggest disasters – a cautionary tale about hype over substance.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What are the betting odds for Gable Steveson vs. Elisha Ellison at UFC 329?
- A: Gable Steveson is a -2166 favorite, meaning a $2,166 bet wins $100, making it one of the largest favorites in UFC history. Elisha Ellison is a +1200 underdog.
- Q: Why does Elisha Ellison think Jon Jones’ mentorship won’t help Gable Steveson?
- A: Ellison told Sherdog that Jon Jones’ unique style may not translate to a live opponent with a simpler game plan, and Steveson’s inexperience could be exploited.
- Q: What is Gable Steveson’s background before joining the UFC?
- A: Steveson is an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling (2020) who briefly pursued an NFL career with the Buffalo Bills before transitioning to MMA with a 3-0 record.
Extended Reading
Sources: NFL.com (Grant Gordon, July 9, 2026); Sherdog (Elisha Ellison interview); MMA Junkie (Nolan King, July 8, 2026)