Oklahoma State Wrestling Sets New Attendance Record
In a season full of highlights, Oklahoma State wrestling has once again shattered its own attendance record, drawing an impressive average of 9,259 fans per dual. This feat builds on last year's record of 7,603, achieved in David Taylor's first season with the Cowboys. The excitement reached a crescendo on Sunday when the Cowboys defeated Iowa 32-11.
1. The Tattoo Bet and Breaking Records
David Taylor, the mastermind behind this surge in popularity, had a playful wager with marketing guru Detrick Bombarger. Taylor confidently predicted they'd break the attendance record again, prompting Bombarger to promise a "Pokes Wrestling" tattoo if they did.
True to his word, Bombarger got inked even before the record-breaking season concluded. As Taylor joked, next year’s challenge will need an even bigger incentive.
2. Jax Forrest: A Rising Star
Jax Forrest is making waves, and his performance on Sunday was nothing short of spectacular. Despite still being high school-aged, Forrest has foregone a redshirt season to compete at the collegiate level.
Ranked sixth nationally, he boasts a 10-0 record after dominating No. 9 Drake Ayala with a 19-3 victory.
Forrest remains grounded, focusing on the present and not letting success inflate his ego. His mantra?
Keep working hard and stay humble.
3. David Taylor Praises the Crowd
Taylor couldn't help but express his admiration for the 12,629 fans who packed Gallagher-Iba Arena. He reflected on the vision of reigniting the wrestling program's legacy and how quickly it has come to life.
Taylor, who’s experienced many wrestling environments, emphasized that nothing compares to the passion and energy at Oklahoma State. It’s more than just about the matches; it’s about creating lasting memories for everyone involved.
4. Zack Ryder’s Dramatic Victory
In a tense 184-pound matchup, Zack Ryder faced Gabe Arnold, with the match tied at 1-1 heading into sudden victory. Ryder capitalized on a stall call against Arnold, clinching a 2-1 win.
Taylor noted the importance of the stall rule, highlighting Ryder's aggression and the official's courage in making the call. It was a strategic win that underscored Ryder’s tenacity.
5. Konner Doucet’s Farewell to Gallagher-Iba
For heavyweight Konner Doucet, Sunday marked his final match at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Doucet, who’s been with the program since 2020, ended on a high note with a third-period pin. Reflecting on his time, Doucet admitted the emotional weight of the moment, cherishing the memories made in one of wrestling’s most iconic venues.
As Oklahoma State continues to build on its wrestling legacy, the combination of passionate fans, standout athletes, and a visionary coach like David Taylor ensures that the Cowboys remain a force to be reckoned with.