The air crackled with excitement as Zahid Valencia and Kyle Dake stepped onto the mat for their Final X showdown, a clash everyone knew would be epic. Valencia, a 2023 World Bronze Medalist at 92 KG, made the strategic move down to 86 KG for this showdown, facing Dake, who had ascended two weight classes himself this cycle. But what truly made the difference this time around?
It was Valencia’s incredible transformation under the guidance of wrestling phenom David Taylor in the Oklahoma State wrestling room. The irony isn’t lost on anyone: Valencia had been swept by Taylor himself at Final X in 2022 and again at the 2024 World Team Trials at 92 KG. Now, under Taylor’s tutelage, Valencia delivered a convincing defeat to a man who is a lifelong friend of his coach. This wasn’t just a test of pure skill; it was a powerful statement of Valencia’s immense growth, a story of redemption and absolute dominance executed with surgical precision. So, how exactly did Valencia flip the script so dramatically?
Well, from the very first whistle, it was clear that Valencia had no intention of letting Dake get comfortable. The match exploded with a ferocity that left both analysts and spectators awestruck. “I had this whole idea in my mind of what I was going to say,” one analyst on FloWrestling episode confessed. “I was like, man, Zahid really just didn’t give Dake any hope at all.” Valencia’s strategy was a masterclass in dominance, his lightning-fast strikes early in the match setting a tone that Dake struggled to counter. “That’s just what I left with,” the analyst continued, “and then I re-watched Match One and I was like, well, man, he was right there to get it. But I think the quick strikes early from Zahid were just so impactful.” Those initial moves weren’t just about scoring points; they were a psychological punch, a bold declaration that Valencia was in charge.
Zahid Valencia vs Kyle Dake takeaways. Watch/listen to the full episode of #FRL to hear the full recap. Out on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts
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As the match wore on, Valencia’s control only intensified. His uncanny ability to get behind Dake early and secure turns wasn’t just a clever tactic, it was a game-changer. “Those were just huge for him,” the analyst noted, “and getting that early go behind and getting turns against Dake, which he was able to get not only at the U.S. Open but also Final X, huge difference maker.” Dake, ever the fierce competitor, wasn’t far off in terms of raw skill, yet Valencia’s relentless pressure kept him from finding his footing. “Kyle’s not far off,” the analyst admitted, “but now Zahid is in the driver’s seat for the quad.” This palpable shift in momentum was a stark reminder of how quickly the tide can turn in the unpredictable world of wrestling. But what does this mean for the future of these two wrestling titans?
Yet, amidst this impressive display, there was a hint of even greater potential. “Zahid did an awesome job. I think he’s getting better and better. I honestly feel like he’s leaving points on the board.” His caution, perhaps born from a deep respect for Dake, might have been a bit over the top, but it certainly didn’t diminish his absolute command of the match. As the dust settles, the big questions remain: How will Dake rebound from this setback, and just how high will Valencia’s star climb next? Meanwhile, Zahid talks about the RTC transfer.
Zahid talks about transferring to Cowboy RTC
Zahid Valencia‘s move to the Cowboy RTC wasn’t just a change of address, it was a huge leap of faith. The two-time NCAA champion, fresh off his bronze medal win at the 2023 World Championships, made the bold decision to leave Arizona State University for Oklahoma State’s Cowboy RTC.
Wrestling: U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Wrestling Apr 20, 2024 State College, Pennsylvania, USA Kyle Dake looks on in the 74 kilograms Freestyle Championship Final during day two of the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team Trials at Bryce Jordan Center at Penn State. State College Bryce Jordan Center at Penn State Pennsylvania USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMatthewxO Harenx 20240420_tbs_bm2_419
“It’s been more than I could ask for, you know,” Valencia reflected on the transition. “It wasn’t an easy move. I was very happy at ASU, but something definitely needed to change.” His words carry the weight of a wrestler who intimately understands the grind, the endless repetition, and the critical need for evolution. He added, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and over again, expecting different results,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with any athlete striving for growth.
Yet, this transition was more than just a strategic shift, it was a profound personal transformation. “So I knew how to get out of my comfort zone,” Valencia continued, his voice tinged with gratitude. “And man, it’s been—I’ve been so grateful, so blessed, you know? I feel like God put me on the right path for where I need to succeed, and the success just kind of proves what I was meant to do and that I was meant to make the move out there.” His words paint a vivid picture of a destiny fulfilled, of a wrestler truly finding his place. What do you think this new chapter at the Cowboy RTC means for Zahid Valencia’s future on the mat?
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