Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson Shocks NCAA with Historic Win, Salutes Trump, and Shares Air Force Journey

In a jaw-dropping upset at the NCAA Wrestling Championships, Wyatt Hendrickson of Oklahoma State University defeated the reigning champion Gable Steveson, cementing his place in wrestling history. The electrifying match, held at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, saw Hendrickson secure a last-minute takedown, stunning fans and analysts alike.

A Match for the Ages

Hendrickson, a 24-year-old U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, entered the tournament as an underdog against Olympic gold medalist Steveson. The match was a battle of grit and strategy, with Steveson initially dominating. However, in the final 30 seconds, Hendrickson executed a perfect move, scoring a decisive three-point takedown that sealed his victory.

The moment the referee declared him the winner, Hendrickson draped himself in the American flag and stood at attention, delivering a formal military salute to former President Donald Trump, who was in attendance. The gesture quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention from sports and political circles.

Hendrickson’s Salute to Trump – What It Means

Speaking after the match, Hendrickson expressed his admiration for Trump, highlighting his appreciation for strong leadership and support for the military. “It was a moment of respect,” Hendrickson explained. “As someone who serves this country, I wanted to acknowledge his presence and the values I stand for.”

Trump, who was visibly impressed, later congratulated Hendrickson, calling him a “true warrior” and a “future American hero.” The interaction ignited discussions across social media, with fans praising Hendrickson’s patriotism.

From the Air Force to NCAA Champion

Hendrickson’s journey to this historic moment wasn’t easy. Nicknamed “Captain America” during his time at the U.S. Air Force Academy, he was known for his relentless work ethic and dominant performances. Before transferring to Oklahoma State for his final year of eligibility, he:

✅ Became a four-time NCAA qualifier
✅ Led the nation in pins for three consecutive years
✅ Won the Most Dominant Wrestler Award twice (2022, 2023)

His transition to Oklahoma State allowed him to continue wrestling while fulfilling his military obligations, balancing both duties with remarkable discipline.

What’s Next for Wyatt Hendrickson?

With his NCAA triumph, Hendrickson has now set his sights on an even bigger goal – competing in the 2028 Olympics. However, his future is equally committed to serving in the U.S. Air Force, where he has a five-year service commitment. He has expressed his desire to make a long-term career in the military while pursuing excellence in sports.

“I’ve always believed in discipline, hard work, and representing my country in the best way possible,” Hendrickson said. “This win is just the beginning.”

Gable Steveson’s Uncertain Future

For Steveson, this shocking loss has raised speculation about his next move. After brief stints with WWE and the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, his return to collegiate wrestling was seen as a dominant comeback. However, following this defeat, he left his shoes on the mat, a wrestling tradition signifying retirement.

Fans and analysts are now wondering: Will Steveson transition to MMA? The combat sports world is eager to see if he follows in the footsteps of other wrestling greats like Daniel Cormier and Brock Lesnar.

Final Thoughts

Wyatt Hendrickson’s victory at the NCAA Wrestling Championships is more than just an athletic achievement—it’s a testament to dedication, discipline, and patriotism. His story is an inspiration for young wrestlers, aspiring service members, and anyone striving to balance multiple passions.

As he prepares for Olympic trials and a promising Air Force career, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning of his legacy.