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2021 NCAA Champion A.J. Ferrari Loses His First Bout After Soldiers Salute Controversy to an Unexpected Opponent

Published 02/10/2024, 7:15 AM EST

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A.J. Ferrari, the 2021 NCAA champion representing Oklahoma State University, made a highly anticipated return to college wrestling at the Soldier Salute tournament after an absence of over two years from collegiate competition. Also, his comeback took an unexpected turn following a heated confrontation with his opponent, Zach Glazier, a #25 ranked wrestler from Iowa Hawkeyes.

However, recently, in a heartwarming turn of events, Willie Murphy, wrestling coach, took to his social media account to share a delightful moment. Also, the post captured a truly remarkable scene where a pint-sized challenger managed to triumph over the famous 2021 NCAA Division 1 197 lb Champion, A.J. Ferrari.

A.J. Ferrari got defeated by a pint-sized opponent that he enjoyed 

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The video, where Wille Murphy’s son Declan defeated the champion, was more than satisfying and super cute. Posting this proud father moment, he captioned the Instagram video, recounting the unexpected showdown, “Coach Declan defeats 2021 NCAA Division 1 197 lb Champion AJ Ferrari.” The post quickly garnered attention for its intriguing narrative and the sheer innocence in the frame.

Murphy acted as the referee in this impromptu wrestling match. With a playful spirit and unwavering resolve, Declan dared to take on the formidable A.J. Ferrari, embodying the essence of courage and sportsmanship.

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As the match ensued, spectators watched in awe as the spirited youngster displayed remarkable agility and technique, ultimately outmaneuvering the seasoned champion. However, this match brought back memories of the incident when A.J. Ferrari was involved in a meaningful clash with Zach Glazier. The Soldier Salute wrestling tournament finals in Coralville were nothing short of dramatic, leaving spectators buzzing with excitement and controversy. However, the pinnacle of the evening’s events unfolded during the finals of the 197 weight class, where tensions ran high between AJ Ferrari and Iowa’s Zach Glazier.

 

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A post shared by Willie Murphy (@willmurph28)

Ferrari’s comeback and behavior created issues

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The situation heated up and further escalated when A.J. Ferrari attempted to punch Glazier. It showed an unsportsmanlike display as he directed a derogatory gesture towards his opponent. Ferrari’s controversial exit from the tournament adds another chapter to his tumultuous career. He even faced some legal troubles, though charges against him were ultimately dismissed.

Read More: AJ Ferrari Stuns Wrestling Community As He Trains in the Iowa Hawkeyes Gym After Big Soldiers Salute Controversy

He even made an apology for this on his Instagram handle. “I would like to come out and formally say I am disappointed in my reaction this weekend. Iowa has been good to me. I deeply regret my behavior,” he added. Following nearly two years away from the sport, Ferrari’s recent visit to Iowa on December 27 hinted at a potential comeback. But, now, due to his behavior, everyone is looking forward with doubts about his prospects.

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WATCH STORY: I Can Wrestle With Anybody Anytime: The Unranked Purdue Wrestler Proved His Boast

 

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Written by:

Anchal Ahuja

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I am Anchal Ahuja, an Olympic Sports writer at EssentiallySports. My love for sports grew when I first watched Olympics when I was 7-years-old. Growing up as I started to delve deeper into the sporting realm, I decided to move on with my new passion with all new hopes to get success.
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Edited by:

Jacob Gijy