Sean Sharaf is still soaking in the biggest moment of his MMA career after delivering one of the most shocking upsets in recent UFC history.
Heading into UFC 331, Sharaf entered the Octagon as a massive underdog against Olympic gold medalist and undefeated heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson. Many expected Steveson to cruise to victory, but Sharaf had other plans.
Just 12 seconds into the fight, Sharaf landed a devastating combination that sent Steveson crashing to the canvas and handed him the first loss of his professional MMA career.
Now, Sean Sharaf excited about latest win is a storyline dominating headlines after the heavyweight finally secured his first UFC victory in spectacular fashion.
Despite the attention surrounding the knockout, Sharaf admitted the life-changing moment has not fully sunk in.
“No, honestly, it really hasn’t,” Sharaf said when asked if he had processed how much the win could change his career.
“I was just treating this like every other fight. I don’t put anyone on a pedestal. He has two hands, two legs, and he bleeds red, so I guess I shocked the world, but I haven’t felt any different. I’m definitely getting more interviews, that’s for sure, but that’s about it.”
The victory came at a crucial point in Sharaf’s career. He entered UFC 331 with an 0-2 record inside the promotion after suffering stoppage losses to Junior Tafa and Steven Asplund. Another defeat could have placed his UFC future in doubt.
Instead, Sharaf walked away with a highlight-reel knockout and renewed momentum. While many expected him to criticize Steveson after the fight, Sharaf took a different approach. He expressed confidence that the former wrestling standout can bounce back from the setback.
“Yeah, I saw him leaving, but I was thinking about this before the fight,” Sharaf said. “I was 4-0, I was undefeated when I had my first loss in the UFC and he just had his first loss. It makes you better. You’re going to take a look back and you can’t underestimate people. You can’t think you’re untouchable and you’re just going to run through people.
“I think he’s going to go back, he’s going to get better. He’s got a hell of a lot of talent, so I’m sure you guys see him again.”
The knockout may have surprised fans, but Sharaf insists the result followed the exact strategy he planned to execute.
“I told you the game plan was hit, don’t get hit, leave with a bag full of cash,” Sharaf said.”Everyone thought I was joking, but no, I’m just grateful. I’m so grateful. I prayed so hard, I believed in myself, my team believed in me and I’m just so happy. I’m so happy for this moment.”
