A look back at Penn State wrestler Carter Starocci’s earlier bout vs. Parker Keckeisen: Who won?….
In a highly anticipated matchup at the 2024 NWCA All-Star Classic, Penn State’s Carter Starocci faced Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen on November 16, 2024. Starocci, a four-time NCAA champion at 174 pounds, had recently moved up to the 184-pound weight class, where Keckeisen was the reigning national champion.
The bout was a strategic and patient contest, with both wrestlers earning an escape point, leading to a 1-1 tie at the end of regulation. Starocci’s escape took seven seconds, while Keckeisen’s took 35 seconds. In the sudden victory overtime, Starocci maintained control and secured a 4-1 win with a takedown 27 seconds before the end.
This exhibition match marked Starocci’s debut at 184 pounds and showcased his adaptability and skill against top-tier competition. Keckeisen, who had an undefeated 31-0 record en route to his NCAA title the previous season, demonstrated resilience but ultimately fell short in this encounter.
While the match does not affect their official records, it sets the stage for potential future encounters between these elite wrestlers as the season progresses.
