With the season soon approaching, this weight is completely open and turbulent just like it was last year. Eight different guys ranked No. 1 in 2023-2024 and some top 5 guys either graduating or moving up this year, we should expect some kind of blood bath in 2025. Most that we have listed are some of the most consistent and all are proficient enough to take a title.
1. Richard Figueroa has to be at the top of everyone’s list, beating almost everyone else that we will mention. With Ayala and Braden Davis at 133, who is left to challenge him?
2. Jore Volk (Wyoming) Returning Big 12 Champion placed 7th at the NCAA’s in 2024 has beaten both Richard Figueroa and Braeden Davis could take a title this year.
3. Jakob Camacho (NC State) – 4X NCAA qualifier and 3X ACC Champion, carries a 78 win percentage overall. Giving upsets to Sam Latona (Virginia Tech) 3-1, Matt Ramos (Purdue) 8-5, and Jack Mueller (Virginia) 11-4. He has the ability to beat anyone else on this list.
4. Matt Ramos (Purdue) – NCAA finalist in 2023 and one of the top names at 125 lbs, finished 5th last year. Another victim to Figueroa in the CKLV 3-2 last year, he’s completely capable of challenging Figueroa again.
5. Caleb Smith (Appalachian State) – 3X NCAA Qualifier and returning All-American, a solid performer. Barely losing to Figueroa expected to continue competing at a high level
6. Anthony Noto (Lock Haven) – 2X All-American, reliable, and consistent had some close loses to Figueroa by a point in last years NCAA’s and again losing by a point to Matt Ramos in the NWCA All Star classic, he should be a major player.
7. Noah Surtin (Missouri) – 4X NCAA qualifier, he’s experienced and capable of pushing for a higher finish. With 125 being a little light this year there’s no reason why he can’t be in the top 5.
8. Luke Lilledahl (Penn State) –The true freshman from Penn State is expected to make waves this season at 125. Recently winning the prestigious U20 World Championships. I expect this kid to climb very high on the podium and possibly take the top spot come march.
Once again this weight is wide open and while we are confident about this list, there are others like Troy Spratley (OK State) Dean Peterson (Rutgers) Stevo Poulin (Northern Colorado) that can easily replace anyone that we have mentioned.