Wrestling fans, get ready. Final X 2025 is coming to set the mat on fire. Held in the Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey, the wrestling spectacle is scheduled for June 14. And the stakes are higher than ever, as the winner of the best-of-three series will get a spot on Team USA for the World Championships in Zagreb. But that’s not all. For Iowa fans, this will mark the return of their icon, Spencer Lee, to the mat as he gets ready for more international glory. But someone is waiting for him who can put his plans on the damper. But who?

After all, the 27-year-old is a titan of freestyle wrestling and an Olympic silver medalist at 57 kg. With three age-group World titles, a recent gold at the 2025 Zagreb Open Ranking Series, and a reputation for dismantling opponents with technical precision, Lee has earned a direct qualification to Final X, skipping the U.S. Open entirely. But whispers in the wrestling world suggest Lee might face a shocking surprise at Final X. Who could challenge this juggernaut?

That surprise comes in the form of Luke Lilledahl, a 20-year-old prodigy who’s been lighting up the freestyle scene with an unstoppable fire. Lilledahl earned his spot in Final X by storming through the 57kg finals at the U.S. Open in Las Vegas, where he clinched the title on April 26, 2025. Luke Lilledahl stunned with a dominant performance, amassing a 10-0 score.

He capped his run by defeating Liam Cronin in the final. Fresh off a 2024 U20 World Championship victory, Lilledahl is riding a wave of momentum from a terrific season, showcasing agility and skill that have fans going crazy. Lilledahl is no stranger to the challenge, but can this young star’s fearless energy shake up Lee’s reign at Final X?

The stakes are high in New Jersey

What’s on the line couldn’t be more monumental—a spot on the U.S. World Team, a ticket to represent the stars and stripes at the 2025 Senior World Championships in Zagreb. For Lee, it’s another chance to solidify his legacy as one of America’s all-time greats. For Lilledahl, it’s an opportunity to prove he belongs among the elite on the senior stage.

The best-of-three format ensures every move will be critical in this clash of experience versus youth. Adding to the drama, Final X is part of Beat the Streets New York’s Annual Benefit, raising over $1 million annually for youth wrestling programs. How will this generational showdown unfold in front of a packed house?

The Prudential Center will be electric, with fans ready to witness history. Venue policies allow bags up to 12″x14″, with larger ones subject to X-ray screening, ensuring a smooth experience for all. Whether you’re Team Lee, rooting for the veteran to continue his dominance, or Team Lilledahl, cheering for the rising star to pull off an upset, this 57kg battle is poised to be a defining moment for American wrestling.

Who will emerge as the U.S. representative on the world stage? Will we see a new star emerge as the new face of American freestyle? Or will the old guard retain their seat of power? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: the wrestling will be having an absolute treat.