From the barracks to the big stage, Wyatt Hendrickson isn’t just rewriting wrestling history—he’s redefining what it means to be unstoppable. From being a school wrestling champion to becoming a friend of US President Donald Trump. It may not come as a shock to his fans, who follow him closely, but for the uninitiated, President Trump watched the complete match between Wyatt and wrestling star Gable Steveson. And it all happened because of Hendrickson’s request to stay longer.

Wyatt Hendrickson defeated gold medalist and two-time NCAA heavyweight champion Gable Steveson at the 2025 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. The match, held at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center, and the three-point takedown with seconds remaining sent shockwaves through the sport, and his 5-4 victory immediately cemented his place in college wrestling history. Let’s rewind a bit before going further into Hendrickson’s achievements and dominance.

Who is Wyatt Hendrickson?

The Air Force guy was born in Newton, Kansas, and is the only son of Todd and Lynnette Hendrickson, according to his Oklahoma State biography. He was raised by his parents and two sisters, Gracie and Megan. He was recognized as an All-American in a number of competitive wrestling styles, including freestyle, folkstyle, and Greco-Roman, while he was a student at Newton High School. He is presently enrolled at Oklahoma State to get an MBA.

Serving the country is in Wyatt’s blood. How, you may ask? Hendrickson’s grandfather also served in the US Navy. According to Air Force Academy Athletics, Wyatt Hendrickson wrestled for the Air Force Falcons from 2020 to 2024, and he wasn’t just part of the team; he was its powerhouse. A two-time NCAA Most Dominant Wrestler and two-time team captain, Hendrickson made his mark both on and off the mat.

Now a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, he’s got his sights set even higher—literally. His long-term dream? Becoming a pilot. And once he hangs up his wrestling shoes, he’ll begin five years of active military service, as noted by The New York Post.

Wyatt Hendrickson defeated Gable Steveson in the last 20 seconds

Steveson, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist at 125 kg, came into the match riding an incredible 70-match winning streak—unbeaten for nearly four full seasons. On the flip side, Hendrickson wasn’t exactly an underdog either. He also entered the bout with a spotless record. But things got tense. At one point, Hendrickson trailed 4-2, and with just 20 seconds on the clock, it looked like Steveson might hold on yet again.

Then came the twist. In a jaw-dropping moment, Hendrickson pulled off a clutch takedown to snatch the lead, 5-4. He held firm through the final seconds, sealing what many are calling one of the biggest upsets in NCAA wrestling history. As the final whistle blew, Wyatt Hendrickson collapsed to the mat, overwhelmed with disbelief. His teammates rushed in to celebrate the historic win. Rising to his feet, he saluted President Trump from the stands, wrapped himself in the American flag, and soaked in the moment. “It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything,” he told the AP, visibly emotional.

But the story didn’t end there. Just days after that unforgettable match, Hendrickson seems to have scored another win—this time, away from the mat and still very much at Steveson’s expense.

From Newton to national champion, Wyatt Hendrickson is wrestling’s newest phenomenon

Hailing from Newton, Kansas, Hendrickson’s wrestling journey began at Newton High School, where he was a two-time state champion and four-time All-American in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. Initially hesitant about joining the military, he was persuaded by his father to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy.

There, he quickly made his mark, becoming a three-time NCAA All-American and earning the NCAA’s Most Dominant Wrestler award twice. To maximize his final year of eligibility, Hendrickson transferred to Oklahoma State University, where he completed an undefeated season, culminating in his historic victory over Steveson.

Wyatt also received the Dan Hodge trophy as he defeated one of the best wrestlers. Now the goal is to earn a seat at the U.S. Open on the senior World Team, which is an even greater prize. However, it appears that he must surprise them first. Wyatt Hendrickson is gearing up for a major test at the 2025 CLAW U.S. Open in Las Vegas—a crucial stepping stone in his Olympic journey.

Fresh off a dominant NCAA run and a Dan Hodge Trophy win, he’s now shifting his focus to the senior level. A strong showing here could punch his ticket to the Final X and bring him one step closer to the 2028 Olympics in L.A.