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UFC legend Jon Jones blames himself for heavyweight Gable Steveson’s criticized exit from the Octagon at UFC 331.

Heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson suffered one of the most surprising losses of the year against Sean Sharaf at UFC 331. The Olympic gold medalist was knocked out in just 12 seconds by Sharaf despite entering the fight as a significant betting favorite.

Steveson’s fall from grace was a shocking sight for fight fans, pundits, and fellow fighters. But his actions after the loss might’ve been more perplexing than his performance against Sharaf.

Instead of sticking around to congratulate Sharaf and his team for the win, Steveson left the Octagon immediately following the fight alongside Jon Jones and his team. UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, Jones’ two-time rival, blasted Steveson for his abrupt departure at UFC 331.

As Steveson continues to hear it from his critics following UFC 331, Jones revealed that the abrupt exit was his choice, not Steveson’s.

Jon Jones says it was ‘his decision’ to remove Gable Steveson at UFC 331

In a recent tweet, Jones defended Steveson’s abrupt departure from UFC 331.

“I’ve seen some reports online, and I really wanted to clear the air. It was my decision to take Gable straight to the back after the fight,” Jones said of Steveson.

“Honestly, it was the first time in this situation for me, and my instant reaction was to get my friend to the back to make sure he was ok. Gable’s work ethic and will to win is there, and I stand by him and believe he will go on to be one of the best heavyweights in the UFC.

“He will be back; I’m sure of it.”

Before UFC 331, Steveson won his UFC debut by knocking out Elisha Ellison at UFC 329. After skipping a potential showcase bout on Dana White’s Contender Series, Steveson was thought of as a generational heavyweight prospect.

As Steveson deals with the agonizing defeat, Jones will remain in his corner as he looks to bounce back in his eventual return.

What are your thoughts on Gable Steveson’s potential after UFC 331? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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