Wyatt Hendrickson was considered a significant underdog against Gable Steveson, but he defied expectations with an incredible last-second victory Saturday night.
At the NCAA Division I wrestling championships, Hendrickson scored a crucial takedown in the final moments to secure a 5-4 win over Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist, in the 285-pound division final.
“Today, I won the gold medal, I’m No. 1,” Hendrickson stated. “I kept telling myself I was capable of this. God has gifted me. Throughout the week, I`ve reflected on the story of David and Goliath, and how everyone doubted David could defeat Goliath, but I proved them wrong.”
While Steveson`s collegiate wrestling career is now concluded, he may potentially transition to mixed martial arts in the future, and is also aiming for the 2028 Olympics.
See below for reactions from wrestling professionals regarding this significant win: