Jon Jones takes responsibility for Gable Steveson storming out of cage following UFC 331 loss

Jon Jones took responsibility for heavyweight protege Gable Steveson immediately leaving the Octagon following a knockout loss at UFC 331 in Los Angeles, California. Steveson was stopped by Sean Sharaf in just 12 seconds in his second career fight, suffering his first MMA defeat. Rather than waiting for the official decision, Steveson exited the cage, drawing significant criticism from onlookers.

Jones explained in a post on X that it was his decision to usher Steveson backstage instantly to ensure his medical safety. While commentator Daniel Cormier criticized the rapid departure, California State Athletic Commission head Andy Foster defended the priority placed on quickly assessing knocked-out athletes.