In a stunning upset at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships, Purdue’s Joey Blaze defeated top-ranked Penn State wrestler Carter Starocci, shaking up the championship race. Blaze, a formidable competitor from Purdue, has consistently been a strong performer throughout the season, but his victory over Starocci came as a surprising twist in the tournament.
Starocci, the defending NCAA champion and a favorite to win the title in 2025, entered the match with an undefeated record. Known for his incredible technique and mental toughness, Starocci had been dominant throughout his college wrestling career, making his loss to Blaze all the more dramatic. Blaze, on the other hand, was considered an underdog in this match, but his aggressive approach and ability to capitalize on every opportunity made the difference.
The match, which was one of the most highly anticipated of the tournament, lived up to the hype. Blaze demonstrated exceptional resilience, maintaining composure even when Starocci attempted to take control. His strategy was clear: keep the pressure on and exploit any opening, no matter how small. Blaze’s speed and technical skill allowed him to score points in critical moments, eventually securing a win that will be remembered for years to come.
This upset not only shocked fans but also had significant implications for the team standings and individual rankings. Blaze’s victory solidified his reputation as one of the toughest competitors in the tournament, while Starocci will need to regroup for the remaining matches.
Joey Blaze’s triumph serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the NCAA Wrestling Championships, where any wrestler can rise to the occasion and pull off a major upset. As the tournament continues, Blaze’s performance has set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable conclusion.
