Historic Upsets Highlight NCAA Wrestling Championships in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The 2025 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships came to a thrilling conclusion on March 22 at the Wells Fargo Center, where multiple wrestlers etched their names in history with memorable performances. Notable upsets and hard-fought victories characterized the championship matches, culminating in intense battles for individual titles across various weight classes.

In the dramatic 174-pound final, Oklahoma State’s Dean Hamiti faced off against two-time NCAA champion Keegan O'Toole from Missouri. The match remained closely contested, with Hamiti scoring a crucial takedown in sudden victory, securing his first national title and marking a significant milestone for head coach David Taylor. Hamiti’s victory was particularly historic, as it was the first national championship for Taylor in his coaching career.

“This feels incredible,” Hamiti said after the match. “I just wanted to go out there and compete and leave it all on the mat.”

In the 165-pound final, Penn State’s Mitchell Mesenbrink demonstrated dominance against Iowa’s Michael Caliendo. After a wary start, Mesenbrink capitalized on his opportunities, leading to an 8-2 victory that added another title to Penn State’s impressive wrestling legacy.

“I just focused on my technique and executed when it mattered,” Mesenbrink said. “This is a dream come true.”

In a tense showdown at 157 pounds, Nebraska’s Antrell Taylor faced Purdue’s Joey Blaze. Taylor, who started strong with an early takedown, managed to hold off Blaze’s late attempt for a comeback, winning the match 4-2.

“Every second of this match was about heart and grit,” Taylor stated post-match. “I’m proud to represent Nebraska and this team.”

At 149 pounds, Ridge Lovett of Nebraska faced Virginia Tech’s Caleb Henson in a rematch of last year’s semifinal match. Lovett secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory, emerging as an NCAA champion after a tense final period where he maintained composure to secure the win.

Henson said of Lovett’s performance, “He wrestled smart and made the most of his chances. It was a tough battle.”

In the competitive 133-pound final, Lucas Byrd from Illinois went head-to-head with Iowa’s Drake Ayala in an anticipated rematch. Byrd emerged victorious in a thrilling overtime bout that showcased both wrestlers’ skill and strategy.

“It’s all about momentum,” Byrd explained. “I just knew I had to stay focused and trust my training.”

The championships were filled with excitement as participants and fans alike celebrated the grit, determination, and skill of the athletes. The tournament also served as a platform to honor All-American wrestlers, who received accolades for their accomplishments over the season. Only 80 athletes out of thousands compete at this level, underscoring the prestige of these achievements.

As the crowns were placed on the champions’ heads, the spirit of sportsmanship and competition filled the arena, solidifying the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships as a memorable event in collegiate sports history.