Every March the best college wrestlers in the country, get together for the NCAA Wrestling Championships! This tournament is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work for these young men, and only one (in each weight class) can be crowned champion.
This year’s tournament takes place March 20-22nd, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the Wells Fargo Center.
In this article we will discuss last year’s 197 lb champion and who the top contenders are for this season.
2024 Champion: Greg Kerkvliet of Penn State capped a perfect 20-0 season with his first NCAA title. On his way to the title he outscored the competition 50-9. Including an 8-1 victory over former NCAA finalist Cohlton Schultz.
This Year’s Contenders: Gable Steveson of Minnesota, is a former 2X NCAA Champion, and Olympic Gold Medalist and sports a perfect 14-0 record. Greg Kerkvliet of Penn State is 18-1 and the defending NCAA Champion.
Other Contenders: Wyatt Hendrickson of Oklahoma State is 22-0 with 11 pins and 8 techs on the season. he is capable of pinning anyone and is one of the most dominate wrestlers at any weight class.
Dark Horse Contenders: Ben Kueter of Iowa, Ben has a 18-6 record on the year and is very quick for a heavyweight, and his long frame helps him score from angles other heavyweights simply can’t. In a tournament setting he is certainly capable of pulling an upset or two. Owen Trephan of Lehigh is 21-0 on the year, and has a win over NCAA finalist Cohlton Schultz.
2025 NCAA Champion Prediction: Gable Steveson of Minnesota