In an electrifying night at Gallagher-Iba Arena, the Cowboys broke their losing streak against the Hawkeyes with a commanding 32-11 victory, their first win over Iowa since 2019. The standout performance came from freshman Jax Forrest, who stepped up in a big way, burning his redshirt to take on two-time national runner-up Drake Ayala.
Forrest didn’t just win; he dominated, handing Ayala his first technical fall defeat with a 19-3 victory. This was a statement match, showing Forrest’s readiness for the postseason and setting the tone for the Cowboys.
Forrest’s performance was a highlight in a night full of them for OSU. The Cowboys scored bonus points in four bouts, with Sergio Vega, Cody Merrill, and Konner Doucet each securing pins. Vega wrapped up his perfect regular season with a pin against Kale Petersen, maintaining his unbeaten streak without conceding a single takedown.
Cody Merrill, under the watchful eye of his former coach and OSU All-American Daniel Cormier, delivered a stellar performance against Brody Sampson. Merrill showcased his skills with five takedowns before sealing the match with a pin, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Konner Doucet also impressed, flipping Iowa’s heavyweight Gage Marty for a pin. Doucet’s strategic maneuvering on the mat added another highlight to the Cowboys’ dominant display.
Troy Spratley kicked off the night with a solid win at 125 pounds, avenging a previous loss to Dean Peterson with a 5-3 decision. This early victory set the momentum for OSU, quickly putting them up 14-0 after just three matches.
Zack Ryder made a triumphant return from injury, edging out Gabe Arnold in a tense 184-pound matchup that went into sudden victory. Ryder’s tactical acumen forced a second stall call on Arnold, clinching the win.
Despite the Cowboys’ overall success, Dee Lockett faced a setback at 165 pounds, falling to Mikey Caliendo in a close 4-2 decision. This marked Lockett’s first career loss, but his impressive 13-1 record with five Top 10 wins highlights his potential and resilience.
Overall, OSU outperformed Iowa in takedowns and total match points, showcasing their depth and determination. With the postseason on the horizon, the Cowboys look poised and ready to make a significant impact.
Match Results:
- 125: Spratley (OSU) dec. Peterson (Iowa), 5-2
- 133: Forrest (OSU) TF Ayala (Iowa), 19-3
- 141: Vega (OSU) FALL Petersen (Iowa), 6:31
- 149: Block (Iowa) TF Burton (OSU), 5:36
- 157: Robideau (OSU) dec.
Williams (Iowa), 5-1
- 165: Caliendo (Iowa) dec.
Lockett (OSU), 4-2
- 174: Kennedy (Iowa) dec.
Facundo (OSU), 8-3
- 184: Ryder (OSU) dec.
Arnold (Iowa), 2-1 SV-1
- 197: Merrill (OSU) FALL Sampson (Iowa), 4:47
- HWT: Doucet (OSU) FALL Marty (Iowa), 5:54
The Cowboys’ victory over Iowa was a testament to their skill and preparation, setting a high bar as they head into the postseason with confidence and momentum.