Ohio State Wrestling Dominates Michigan 26-16 in Top 10 Showdown
In a thrilling showdown, No. 2 Ohio State wrestling showcased their skill and dominance against No. 10 Michigan, winning decisively 26-16 at the Covelli Center. This match attracted a crowd of 4,299 enthusiastic fans and marked Ohio State’s 16th consecutive dual meet victory this season, elevating their Big Ten record to 5-0.
Ohio State’s Undefeated Streak Continues
The Buckeyes have now secured four consecutive wins in their series against the Wolverines. The team’s powerful performance began with three matches that laid the groundwork for their victory, establishing an early 16-0 lead.
Key Performers
- Nic Bouzakis (No. 2): Earned a pinfall victory.
- Ben Davino (No. 2): Secured a technical fall.
- Jesse Mendez (No. 1): Two-time defending national champion contributed with another technical fall.
Michigan attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to 16-10 after achieving a major decision at 149 pounds and a pin at 157 pounds. However, Ohio State’s Paddy Gallagher (No. 17) quickly regained momentum with an 8-2 decision over Justin Gates at 165 pounds, maintaining the Buckeyes’ lead.
Match Highlights
The final rounds featured intense competition. Each of the last four matches included top-20 ranked wrestlers:
- Carson Kharchla (No. 5): Defeated Beau Mantanona (No. 11) with a 9-6 decision at 174 pounds, pushing the score to 22-10.
- Brock Mantanona (No. 9): Upset Dylan Fishback (No. 7) at 184 pounds.
- Luke Geog (No. 10): Secured a major decision over Hayden Walters (No. 18), finalizing the score at 26-13.
In the heavyweight division, Taye Ghadiali (No. 7) executed an upset against Ohio State’s Nick Feldman (No. 3), but it came too late for the Wolverines to alter the match outcome.
Conclusion
Ohio State wrestling’s victory against Michigan solidifies their place as a dominant force in the Big Ten Conference. With a perfect dual meet record, the Buckeyes continue to build on their impressive campaign, as they aim for future triumphs.
