Ohio State wrestling Dominates Tulsa, Claims Championship Title
TULSA, OK – The Ohio State wrestling team secured a decisive victory at a recent tournament in Tulsa, claiming the championship trophy and a $200,000 prize. The Buckeyes‘ success was fueled by a dominant performance in the lighter weight classes, contributing significantly to their overall triumph.
Head Coach Tom Ryan attributed the team’s success not to any drastic changes, but to the strength of his coaching staff – Jaggers, Logan Stieber, Bo Jordan, and Kolin moore – and the aggressive mindset cultivated within the team. “They understand you gotta constantly score, and that pretty much showed this weekend,” Ryan stated. He emphasized the importance of embracing “tension and duress” in practice, with wrestlers actively seeking challenging training partners.
Ohio State achieved a perfect 20-0 record through the first five weight classes. This stretch included three pins, four technical falls, and six major decisions. Notably, the team registered seven wins against top 10-ranked opponents, including three victories over returning NCAA finalists.
Ryan addressed speculation surrounding Nic Bouzakis’ weight class change, clarifying that his move from 133 to 125 was strategic, not evasive. “Some think Nic ran from [Ohio State freshman Ben] Davino…That isn’t the case.he’s beaten many high-level guys in college. He’s been on five U.S. World Teams. Nic doesn’t run from anyone.” ryan highlighted Bouzakis’ success at 125, citing his pin against Iowa’s Dean Peterson as a key moment.
Freshman Ben Davino’s performance at 133 pounds also drew praise,with Ryan noting Davino’s previous victories over elite wrestlers like Daton Fix,Nico Megaludis,and Austin Desanto. Davino defeated last year’s NCAA finalist, Drake Ayala, with a score of 10-4.
Brandon Cannon, competing at 157 pounds, also delivered a standout performance, securing a major decision win over last year’s NCAA champion, Antrell Taylor of Nebraska. Ryan expressed strong belief in Cannon’s potential,stating he “believed Brandon was going to win nationals last year.”
Adding a unique detail to the team’s story, Cannon’s unusual habit of wearing his wrestling shoes continuously throughout the day impressed Ryan. Cannon himself explained, ”if they feel good, it’s just something I do.I’d prefer just staying at the arena the whole time…but when we leave…I like to keep them on.”
The tournament, while lauded as ”amazing” and a necessary annual event, requires further examination regarding its timing and format to maximize its effectiveness, according to initial reactions.
