Now is the most exciting time to be a wrestling fan! Following the Paris Olympics, the next major wrestling showdown moves to Nebraska for the 2024 World Team Trials—where wrestlers will compete fiercely for a chance to qualify for the prestigious World Championships. However, today’s electrifying atmosphere in Omaha took an emotional turn, as USA wrestler Alex Dieringer took his final bow, marking the end of his stellar career.

A former Oklahoma wrestler, Alex Dieringer was eager for a redemption moment after being eliminated from the Olympic race by Aaron Brooks at the U.S. Team Trials, dashing his hopes of competing in the 86kg category. Unfortunately, today’s outcome was no different—except this time, it marked the final match of his career.

Alex Dieringer bids farewell to the sport

After his bout at the 2024 Non-Olympic Weight World Team Trials, 3x NCAA champion Alex Dieringer untied his shoes and placed them on the mats— a symbolic gesture marking his retirement. At 31, Dieringer signaled the end of his competitive wrestling career, sharing an emotional moment with his loved ones present in the arena. Following this heartfelt moment, USA Wrestling took to X  to wish him well and express gratitude for his years of dedication and contribution to the sport.

Taking to his Instagram, the wrestler voiced his thoughts. Posting the image of him touching his head down on the mat while kneeling, he wrote, “Overwhelmed with so much support..grateful is he one word that comes to mind. I will be giving a lot of thanks when I wake up tomorrow. Been one heck of a ride❤️“

Although the result from the semifinals didn’t go his way, Alex Dieringer has much to be proud of. Despite leading 2-0 against six-time world champion Jordan Burroughs, Dieringer was unable to hold on and ultimately lost his final chance to compete on the world stage in the 79kg semis. However, the wrestling community came together to give him a well-deserved sendoff, honoring his remarkable career.

Fans give Dieringer a warm sendoff online

Commenting below the retirement post, one of Alex Dieringer’s fans wrote, “I’m in my feels. Ringer, you’ll be missed!” Dieringer is presently the recruiting and video coordinator for the Michigan Wolverines’ coaching side. However, it’s his years of wrestling that fans will perhaps miss the most, as another one writes, “I’m not crying, you are.”

Alex Dieringer joined the Michigan Cliff Keen Wrestling Club in 2020, building upon an already impressive career as an Oklahoma State Cowboy. During his time with OSU, he redshirted in the 2011-12 season and later secured 3 NCAA titles, culminating in winning the prestigious Dan Hodge Trophy in 2016. In response to his retirement, OSU Cowboys Wrestling proudly reposted USA Wrestling’s message, celebrating his remarkable achievements during his tenure with the team. They wrote, “Cowboy forever🧡 #GoPokes,” as they offered their congratulations to him on completing an incredible career.

Putting a creative spin on it, a fan penned, “he finally gets to eat some choco cake!” Dieringer has been a 6-time national team member in his career and had to maintain optimum fitness. Via his instructional videos, he kept in touch with the sport. So, the fan feels now is when he can finally let loose. While another one chimes in with validation for everything he’s done, saying “Legends never die.”

Alex Dieringer may have had some narrow misses. But the mark he leaves behind on the sport is irreplaceable. To this end, a fan comments, “I’m a bit biased, but there isn’t anything better than when a wrestler retires. All the work is just left on the mat.“ What has been your favorite moment from Dieringer’s illustrious wrestling career? Share it with us below!