Come the 2025 U20 World Teams Trials on May 31, all eyes were on the youngsters of Team USA. After all, fresh from NCAA and high school grappling, they were about to make their first major mark on the world stage. But it was the finals of the 86kg bout that had the attention of fans across America. The kid on the mat? None other than one of the NCAA scene’s brightest prospects. And seeing him getting pushed to the brink was something electric. But once the showdown was upon us, the youngster showed something different. Something that didn’t just help him in the win but also reminded us all of another famous name.
So, who are we talking about? Well, it’s none other than Max McEnelly. And this wasn’t just another win. With a sudden second wind rarely seen apart from seasoned veterans, Max maxed out like anything. And the fans? The fans saw a glimpse of the Minnesota dominance that one of their more famous sons just showed a few months ago. But while Gable Steveson has departed the hallowed halls of Minnesota, a new freshman is right there to take the reins.
And now it’s clear: Gophers’ McEnelly’s drawing from one of the most iconic sources of inspiration in the sport. Former Minnesota superstar and Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson cast a long shadow, but for this surging talent, it’s become a source of light. A teammate not long ago, Steveson showed him what excellence looks like up close. That same swagger, that same unshakable belief—it’s starting to show in every takedown and every finish.
This past weekend, McEnelly channeled it all into one massive performance, storming back in Match 3 against Aeoden Sinclair to punch his ticket to the 2025 U20 World Championships. This season has been nothing short of explosive. Bonus-point wins in nearly 90% of his matches. A national ranking climb. A key piece in Minnesota’s charge back toward the NCAA’s elite. And now, a chance to shine on the world stage.
Max McEnelly comes up CLUTCH in match 3 over Aeoden Sinclair to secure his spot on the 2025 U20 World Team pic.twitter.com/kriMHn2Fzx
— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) June 1, 2025
What began as a breakout year is now turning into something much bigger. A signature campaign, one that’s placing him squarely in the national spotlight. He’s not just winning. He’s building something. Momentum, legacy, belief. And if he keeps channeling that Gable-inspired mentality, the world might soon be watching more than just another American prospect. They might be witnessing the arrival of a future wrestling star.
Max McEnelly delivers on the NCAA stage, claims third at 184 pounds
From a prep phenom to a podium finisher on college wrestling’s biggest stage, Gophers redshirt freshman Max McEnelly proved he belongs with the best. Wrestling with composure beyond his years, the third-seeded McEnelly edged out Oklahoma State’s Dustin Plott 6-5 in the NCAA third-place match at 184 pounds Saturday in Philadelphia. Minnesota’s best finish at the weight since 2007.
McEnelly sealed the win with a relentless third period, scoring two takedowns against the fourth-seeded Plott and locking up a crucial riding time point. The Waconia native, who had an undefeated 58-0 senior season in high school and was a three-time Minnesota state champion, showcased the same dominance that made him a blue-chip recruit.
It’s been a sharp learning curve, but his NCAA debut ended with him on the podium. His grit showed throughout the tournament, culminating in a composed finish that even surpassed Gophers head coach Brandon Eggum’s freshman-year result. Now an All-American with his name etched in Gophers history, McEnelly’s freshman year is officially a success.
His third-place finish is a launchpad, not a peak. With his college career just beginning, the next stop on his calendar is the U23 Nationals this summer, where he’ll have another shot to test himself against elite talent. McEnelly may have just introduced himself to the nation, but for those who followed his journey from high school mats to NCAA glory, this moment was always coming.
The post Former Gophers Teammate Channels Inner Gable Steveson as 20-Year-Old Fulfills American Dream appeared first on EssentiallySports.