Wrestling has long been a cornerstone of collegiate athletics, and no conference exemplifies this tradition more than the Big Ten. With powerhouse programs, legendary wrestlers, and electrifying matches, the Bbig 10 wrestling championships serve as a proving ground for the nation’s best. The 2025 tournament, held at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston, Illinois, continued this legacy, delivering unforgettable moments and setting the stage for the NCAA Championships.
This article takes an in-depth look at the history, significance, results, and standout performances of the 2025 Big Ten Wrestling Championships, celebrating the grit, determination, and sheer talent of these elite athletes.
The Importance of the big 10 wrestling championships
The big 10 wrestling championships are one of the most prestigious collegiate wrestling tournaments in the United States. The conference consistently produces national champions and Olympians, making this event a crucial stepping stone for wrestlers aiming for NCAA glory.
Historical Dominance
Big Ten schools have historically dominated collegiate wrestling, with programs such as Penn State, Iowa, and Minnesota leading the way. These teams have not only excelled in conference championships but have also secured multiple NCAA team titles. Legendary wrestlers, including Dan Gable, Cael Sanderson, and Gable Steveson, have all competed under the Big Ten banner, cementing the conference’s status as the gold standard in collegiate wrestling.
A Preview of the NCAA Championships
Since the Big Ten is the strongest wrestling conference, its tournament often serves as a preview of the NCAA Wrestling Championships. Many wrestlers who win their weight classes at the Big Ten Championships go on to become NCAA champions. The high level of competition means that every match, from preliminary rounds to the finals, is intense and highly competitive.
2025 Big Ten Wrestling Championships: Key Highlights
The 2025 Big Ten Wrestling Championships featured thrilling matches, dominant performances, and historic achievements. With Penn State emerging victorious as the team champion, several individual wrestlers made history with their performances.
Team Standings and Overview
The final team standings at the 2025 Big Ten Wrestling Championships were as follows:
- Penn State – 181.5 points
- Nebraska – 137 points
- Iowa – 112 points
- Minnesota – 108.5 points
- Illinois – 105.5 points
Penn State reaffirmed its dominance by securing five individual champions and accumulating 181.5 points, outpacing second-place Nebraska by a significant margin. The Nittany Lions have now won multiple Big Ten titles under coach Cael Sanderson, continuing their dynasty in collegiate wrestling.
Weight big 10 wrestling championships
125 lbs: Luke Lilledahl (Penn State)
Freshman Luke Lilledahl had an outstanding tournament, solidifying himself as a rising star in collegiate wrestling. He defeated returning Big Ten champion Eric Barnett from Wisconsin in a tightly contested final, securing a 4-2 decision victory. Lilledahl’s ability to remain composed under pressure and execute takedowns in crucial moments was key to his success.
133 lbs: Lucas Byrd (Illinois)
Lucas Byrd delivered a gritty performance in the 133-pound weight class, overcoming Iowa’s Cullan Schriever in a 6-5 decision. Byrd’s victory helped Illinois climb up the team rankings, and his tactical approach to matches—balancing strong defense with well-timed attacks—proved effective throughout the tournament.
141 lbs: Brock Hardy (Nebraska)
Brock Hardy continued Nebraska’s recent success in the lower weight classes by capturing the 141-pound title. Hardy’s relentless offensive style overwhelmed his opponents, and his dominant 10-3 decision in the finals demonstrated why he is considered one of the top 141-pounders in the nation.
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149 lbs: Ridge Lovett (Nebraska)
Nebraska’s Ridge Lovett put on a spectacular show in the 149-pound division, defeating Penn State’s Shayne Van Ness in the finals. Lovett’s aggressive style and ability to counterattack effectively made him a standout competitor. His championship win marked Nebraska’s second individual title of the tournament.
157 lbs: Tyler Kasak (Penn State)
Another bright spot for Penn State was Tyler Kasak, big 10 wrestling championships the 157-pound title. Kasak’s explosive offensive skills and superior conditioning allowed him to take control of matches and dictate the pace. He defeated Iowa’s Caleb Rathjen with a decisive 7-2 victory.
165 lbs: Mitchell Mesenbrink (Penn State)
One of the most anticipated matches of the tournament was at 165 pounds, where Penn State’s Mitchell Mesenbrink faced off against Nebraska’s Peyton Robb. Mesenbrink’s powerful wrestling style and relentless attacks helped him secure an 8-3 win. His victory was crucial in Penn State’s team title campaign.
174 lbs: Levi Haines (Penn State)
Levi Haines continued his impressive collegiate career by winning the 174-pound championship. His tactical wrestling and ability to control the mat helped him secure a 6-2 victory over Iowa’s Patrick Kennedy. Haines is now a strong favorite to win the NCAA title at 174 pounds.
184 lbs: Carter Starocci (Penn State)
A three-time NCAA champion, Carter Starocci showed why he remains one of the best wrestlers in the nation. Starocci dominated his competition, capping off his tournament with a 12-4 major decision over Michigan’s Jaden Bullock. His exceptional skill set and technical prowess make him a favorite for a fourth NCAA title.
197 lbs: Jacob Cardenas (Michigan)
Michigan’s Jacob Cardenas was the lone Wolverine to claim an individual title, securing a victory at 197 pounds. Cardenas used his defensive skills to neutralize his opponents and earned a 5-4 decision win in the finals. His championship performance was a highlight for Michigan’s program.
285 lbs: Gable Steveson (Minnesota) big 10 wrestling championships
The most anticipated moment of the tournament was the return of Gable Steveson. Already an Olympic gold medalist and multiple-time NCAA champion, Steveson made history by becoming the first heavyweight to win four Big Ten titles. He dominated Penn State’s Greg Kerkvliet in the finals with a 10-3 decision, marking his 66th consecutive collegiate victory.
Impact and Looking Ahead to the NCAA Championships
Penn State’s Continued Dominance
With five individual champions, Penn State proved once again why it remains the premier program in collegiate wrestling. Under coach Cael Sanderson, the Nittany Lions have built a dynasty, consistently developing world-class wrestlers and competing for NCAA titles.
Gable Steveson’s Historic Run
Steveson’s fourth Big Ten title cements his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights in collegiate wrestling history. His return to NCAA competition adds even more excitement to the national championships, where he will aim to add another NCAA title to his decorated career.
Nebraska’s Rise
Nebraska’s strong showing, with two individual champions and a second-place team finish, signals that the Cornhuskers are a program on the rise. Their success in the lower weight classes demonstrates the depth and talent of their roster, positioning them as strong contenders for NCAA podium finishes.
The Road to Philadelphia
With the NCAA Championships set to take place in Philadelphia from March 20-22, the Big Ten’s top wrestlers will now prepare for the biggest stage in collegiate wrestling. Given the conference’s dominance, it is likely that many of the champions and finalists from the Big Ten tournament will play a significant role in determining the national champions.
Final Thoughts
The big 10 wrestling championships delivered everything wrestling fans hoped for—intensity, drama, and history-making performances. Penn State’s dominance, Nebraska’s emergence, and Gable Steveson’s legendary victory all made this tournament one for the ages.
As these wrestlers shift their focus to the NCAA Championships, the stakes will be even higher. Will Penn State continue its reign? Can Nebraska or Iowa challenge their supremacy? And will Gable Steveson cap off his career with another national title?