Hendrickson Upsets Steveson for NCAA Heavyweight Title

In a jaw-dropping turn of events at the 2025 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, Wyatt Hendrickson of Oklahoma State pulled off one of the most significant upsets in collegiate wrestling history. The heavyweight final, held on March 22, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, saw Hendrickson defeat two-time NCAA champion and Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in the 285-pound category.

Steveson, representing the University of Minnesota, entered the championship as the top seed and heavy favorite. With an undefeated season and a 70-match winning streak, he was poised to claim his third NCAA title. Hendrickson, a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and a transfer from the Air Force Academy, was the underdog. Despite his impressive 27-0 season, few believed he could topple the wrestling titan.

The match began with Steveson taking an early lead, scoring a takedown in the first period. Hendrickson responded with escapes in the first and second periods, narrowing the gap. As the clock ticked down in the third period, Steveson held a 4-2 advantage. With just 18 seconds remaining, Hendrickson executed a stunning takedown, the only one Steveson allowed all season, securing a 5-4 victory.

The crowd erupted as Hendrickson celebrated his historic win. Draped in the American flag, he saluted former President Donald Trump, who was in attendance, before shaking his hand. The victory marked Hendrickson’s first NCAA title and ended Steveson’s six-year unbeaten streak in collegiate wrestling.

Oklahoma State finished third in the team standings with 102.5 points, behind Penn State and Nebraska. Penn State claimed the team title with 177 points, while Nebraska secured second place with 117 points. Other standout performances included Carter Starocci of Penn State, who won his unprecedented fifth national title in the 184-pound category, and Ridge Lovett of Nebraska, who claimed the 149-pound crown.

Hendrickson’s triumph reflects perseverance and belief. His journey from the Air Force Academy to NCAA champion will undoubtedly inspire wrestlers and sports enthusiasts for years to come.

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Tags: Wrestling, Combat Sports