Former champion s has taken duty for d at C 331.
On Saturday, Steveson was knocked out by seismic underdog Sean Sharaf in 12 seconds, in a scene that despatched the Los Angeles crowd into raptures.
The outcome was the primary lack of Steveson’s younger profession – a profession that has introduced main expectations, as a result of American’s Olympic gold medal in wrestling.
Expectations round Steveson, 26, had been solely heightened when he started coaching along with his buddy Jones, one of the controversial personalities in UFC historical past.
And there was controversy on Saturday, when Steveson and Jones left the cage and ringside space earlier than their outcome was introduced.
Jones, 39, has now moved to handle the matter, writing on social media: “I’ve seen some experiences on line and I actually needed to clear the air.
“It was my resolution to take Gable straight to the again after the combat. Truthfully it was the primary time on this state of affairs for me and my prompt response was to get my buddy to the again to verify he was okay.
“Gable’s work ethic and can to win is there and I stand by him and consider he’ll go on to be the most effective heavyweights within the UFC. He can be again I’m positive of it.”
Steveson was 4-0 previous to UFC 331, with 4 first-round knockouts to his title. Nonetheless, he had additionally proven himself to be uncooked, and Sharaf uncovered his inexperience.
Sharaf, a former US marine, was emotional within the cage after his win, and he informed reporters afterwards: “Yeah, I noticed him leaving, however I used to be interested by this earlier than the combat.
“I used to be 4-0, I used to be undefeated once I had my first loss within the UFC, and he simply had his first loss. It makes you higher; you’re going to have a look again and you may’t underestimate individuals. You’ll be able to’t assume you’re untouchable and also you’re simply going to run by way of individuals.
“I feel he’s going to return, he’s going to get higher. He’s acquired a hell of loads of expertise, so I’m positive you guys see him once more.
“I informed you the gameplan was hit, don’t get hit, go away with a bag full of money. Everybody thought I used to be joking, however no, I’m simply grateful. I’m so grateful.
“I prayed so exhausting, I believed in myself, my staff believed in me, and I’m simply so comfortable. I’m so comfortable for this second.
“I used to be simply treating this like each different combat. I don’t put anybody on a pedestal. He has two palms, two legs, and he bleeds pink, so I assume I shocked the world, however I haven’t felt any completely different. I’m positively getting extra interviews, that’s for positive, however that’s about it.”
