The wrestling family mourns the loss of Mike Allen, a trailblazer as a referee and former competitor who had a lasting influence on the sport. A University of Northern Iowa (UNI) double-sport wrestler and football player, he excelled at each before entering refereeing. His influence extended far beyond the wrestling floor as he was recognized as being the Iowa Wrestling Official of the Year for a total of three times and as the first African-American ever to referee at the state championships in Iowa.

Allen began wrestling at UNI, where he proved to be incredibly versatile as a football player and wrestler. His competitive personality and leadership traits made him a respected figure among his teammates and coaches. After retiring as a player, he dedicated himself to refereeing, where he broke down barriers and went on to be one of sports’ greatest icons.

With a reputation for professionalism, consistency, and fairness as a wrestling official, Allen established himself as a respected figure at elite-level competitions. His dedication to integrity and thorough expertise in the sport saw him rewarded as a trusted official. Three-time winner of the Iowa Wrestling Official of the Year award, Allen created a benchmark for refereeing, ensuring each competition took place accurately and equitably.

Aside from refereeing, he was also a mentor to wrestlers and referees. His leadership impacted younger wrestlers and officials in career promotion and instilled values about sportsmanship and dignity in them. His influence extended beyond calling fouls—he was a wrestling teacher, ensuring wrestling would continue to grow in tandem with the next generation.

Allen’s sudden passing sent the family of wrestlers at Panther into mourning, as he is known for his lasting contribution to wrestling. His influence reached beyond his in-mat decision-making, though, as he created opportunities and relationships for others as well. He will be remembered as a trailblazer who opened doors and paved the way for generations to come in wrestling.

An outpouring of love – tributes from the fans

Tributes poured in when news about Allen’s passing spread, and they came in players, trainers, and administrators who honored his commitment and personality. Several explained how he impacted their sporting experience.

“One of my favorite officials throughout college. Just a great person. Everyone loved Mike. RIP my man,” Adam Tirapelle, a former standout collegiate wrestler, posted.

Allen had a reputation for being highly professional but for being a friendly and personable man outside of the wrestling mat as well. One fan recalled his style as saying, , “One of the kindest human beings I have ever met. Always had time to stop and visit with anyone. I will never forget the fancy suits he wore. He always told me, ‘Look good, feel good.’ Thank you, Mike, for always sharing positivity with everyone around you. You’ll be missed. Prayers.”

His kindness extended beyond wrestlers. His co-workers at tournaments noticed it too. “I had the privilege of working a few tournaments when Mike was reffing. He was always the epitome of niceness and had a knack for making us laugh and messing up the scoreboard. RIP,” as posted by a co-worker, listing some of wrestling’s lighthearted moments thanks to Allen.

Even as a referee, Allen had a lasting impact on the players he refereed. As one memorial noted, his fairness and consistency were apparent: “The best thing to say about a referee is he was consistent. He didn’t have to make the right call, just the same call.”

An honest statement captured just how much Allen had touched the wrestling family: “One of the best!! Rest in Heaven, my friend! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🙏🏽.”

We can say Mike Allen is a loss beyond measure for the wrestling family, but his legacy of quality, integrity, and mentoring will continue to live on. Mike wasn’t just an official—he was a trailblazer, a mentor, and a respected figure in the sport he dedicated his career to. Though he is no longer on the mat, his name is still etched in wrestling history. His impact will continue to be felt in the community he touched so profoundly. As recognition rolls in, Mike Allen will surely be remembered, not just in the rule book, but in the minds and hearts he touched.