Ex-NCAA Wrestling Champion A.J. Ferrari Transitions Into Coaching With a Remarkable First Success Story

Published 02/27/2024, 12:30 AM EST

Follow Us

The reigning NCAA wrestling champion is known for his strategic takedowns and dominating presence on the mat. However, a few days ago, he found himself in a controversy during the Soldier Salute Tournament. The disruption that occurred during the tournament raised concerns about his career ahead. Despite his stellar victory at the 2021 NCAA championship, his future is on the line.

But the incident never stopped him from eyeing a potential move to join the Iowa Hawkeyes and facing Zach Glazier. But it is not all he checked on his list. Recently, he has tried his hands-on coaching right after practicing MMA with his younger brother. The internet got to see another side of Ferrari with his latest post.

A.J. Ferrari went from the mat to being the mentor

The wrestler recently shared a highlight on his official Instagram page, where he talked about coaching a sixth grader named Bryce Stone. The 12-year-old got a chance to perform at Ferrari’s High School Varsity Season Goal. Stone qualified for the Florida Division 1A State Tournament (-106). Stone secured 2nd place at the district level and 4th at the regional level, but that’s not it, as he ranked 15 in the whole Varsity.

 

Amid the uncertainty in his career, he is putting his best self out, not only for himself but also to help the incoming wrestler with his events. The wrestler is dedicated to promoting fitness, as he recently shared another video of his recent sighting at the Hawkeyes’ gym. He could be seen gearing up for the upcoming wrestling events in the video as well.

Former NCAA Wrestling Champ couldn’t mark his success

In the gym, he was engaging in a clean jerk workout and effortlessly lifting a barbell with loaded weight. However, what caught fans’ hearts was his return against the tiny little wrestler on the mat. Which was also appreciated by his coach, Willie Murphy. Murphy shared a social media post showcasing his winning moment with his son, Zach Glazier.

The pint-sized challenger managed to secure a victory over the 2021 NCAA Division 197-pound champion. Murphy acted as a referee, whereas Glazier showed his full power and resilient moves. However, Ferrari landed a giant punch, very slowly but still couldn’t beat the little champion. Fans are not only anticipating seeing him at the upcoming events, but they are also eager to know how well he continues to take his coaching career.

READ MORE: Why Is AJ Ferrari Still Not Wrestling as a Hawkeye Despite Acceptance in University of Iowa?

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Shayni Maitra

404Articles

One take at a time

Shayni Maitra is an Olympics Sports writer at EssentiallySports. She actively covers the NCAA Division 1 Women’s Volleyball and writes her insights about the combating world of Wrestling. Bringing detailed narratives of collegiate athletics to spotlight, Shayni bridges the gap between her readers, and their favorite NCAA athletes.
Show More>

Edited by:

Tushhita Barua