For those who closely follow college wrestling, it’s important to note that Carter Starocci is currently in his final season at Penn State. What is his objective for the 2024-25 campaign? In pursuit of his fifth NCAA title, he aims to make history as the first college wrestler to achieve this remarkable feat. Recall the moment when Starocci remarked, “You can’t let winning affect who you are, you just remain driven to perfection. Most people when they get there, they lose some of that drive, they get satisfied. Success is not continuum, it’s momentary and unless you keep doing all of the things you have done but even more so, to continue to improve, and get better!”
The Penn State wrestler is resolute as he approaches his final season, and indeed, the numbers speak volumes. What does it reveal? After the conclusion of the Big 10 Championships, Carter Starocci boasts an impressive record of 21-0. Initially, he achieved a commanding victory over Indiana’s Donnell Washington, finishing with a score of 18-1. Starocci then took on Maryland’s Jaxon Smith, securing a decisive victory with a score of 12-2. Ultimately, he squared off against Minnesota’s Max McEnelly, who proved to be a formidable opponent.
Nevertheless, the victory was claimed by the Penn State wrestler, finishing with a score of 8-5. And would you believe it? This victory secured his status as a three-time champion in the Big 10. This is a significant moment for the Penn State wrestler as he approaches his final season with the program.
After his win, Starocci shared a message, as seen on Evan Smith’s X profile, saying, “I mean, when it gets deep, you can look into your opponent’s eyes, and you can kind of feel them soften up a little bit. And you’re just kind of seeing how far you’re willing to go.” The Penn State wrestler showcases an aggressive approach in his matches, firmly establishing himself as a formidable presence on the mat.
“As some guys look at it, it’s just a sport, and come here to go to school, get a degree, and things like that. But for me, it’s much more than that. It’s almost sold out there. It’s my 24 hours versus your 24 hours. It’s my coaching staff versus yours. It’s my training partners versus yours. It’s my dad versus your dad. And that’s kind of how I look at it,” said Starocci.
Carter Starocci with some intense comments after his Big Ten title victory pic.twitter.com/AkHgIPQCDX
— Evan Smith (@EvanRGSmith) March 10, 2025
The wrestler became part of the Penn State team in 2019. He managed to leave a lasting impression on everyone during his redshirt season alone. Starocci has accomplished a great deal with Penn State in only a few years, and he remains resolute in his goal to graduate while leaving a lasting legacy. However, are you aware that there is someone who could possibly pursue the title of Starocci once he exits the college wrestling arena?
The next big deal in the 184 lbs after Carter Starocci
Carter Starocci has showcased unparalleled dominance in the 184 lbs division. A college wrestling fan can hardly envision anyone taking his place. With the Penn State wrestler departing after the upcoming season, it’s crucial that someone steps up to claim his title in some capacity. But who does the audience favor? Introducing Angelo Ferrari!
The sibling of AJ Ferrari plays an essential role on the Iowa Hawkeyes, and his statistics? The current season stands at 10 wins and 1 loss. He also competes in the 184 lbs category, and during this campaign, his only loss came against Carter Starocci on January 31 when the Hawkeyes went up against Penn State. In his most recent match against Oklahoma State University, he engaged in a challenging contest with Dustin Plott, ultimately clinching a 6-3 victory.
After the match, Ferrari remarked, “Going against my brother’s old team and the biggest rivalry in college wrestling, it was the best moment of my wrestling career so far, probably.” He just loved wrestling against AJ’s old college. Angelo also recognized the competitive spirit between OKSU and Iowa, expressing his satisfaction in being involved in this matchup. Only time will reveal what lies ahead for the wrestler.
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