The Iowa Hawkeyes achieved an impressive 14-1 record in their regular wrestling season, with their sole loss coming at the hands of Penn State. A considerable amount of wrestling preparation has been underway for the NCAA championships, with Kyle Parco being one of the notable competitors. The Iowa wrestling star triumphed over Dylan Gilcher in the 149 lbs category and was then prepared for a showdown with Oregon State’s Ethan Stiles.

Despite a valiant effort, Parco succumbed to his opponent with a score of 8-0 after taking injury time at the conclusion of the first period. This unexpected scene left numerous wrestling enthusiasts taken aback, as they had anticipated a much greater performance from the Hawkeyes standout.

In a surprising turn of events, college wrestling enthusiasts received an unexpected update from Ross Bartachek on X, who reported, “Kyle Parco’s season is done. This morning he medically forfeited his consolation match.” It was, without a doubt, the concluding year of NCAA wrestling eligibility for Kyle Parco. He started his journey at Fresno State before transferring to Arizona State. However, he soon found himself in competition for the University of Iowa.

Throughout these years, Parco garnered numerous accolades, including being a four-time All-American and a three-time Pac-12 Champion in the 149 lbs division. After delivering standout performances, he earned the fifth seed at 149 pounds for the upcoming 2025 NCAA Championships.

Let’s recall the moment when coach Tom Brands delivered his assessment for his team, asserting, “I think you have to be looking forward. You evaluate, you look forward, you get better. You have to really look forward to the competition, not just because the date is on the calendar, but because you are excited to compete at the national championships.”

Brands exude confidence. As his wrestlers stepped onto the grand stage of college wrestling, he radiated pride for their achievements, all the while eagerly anticipating the best for his own wrestler. Nonetheless, this specific update would have devastated the coach, much like it did for numerous fans.

Iowa wrestling fans’ response to the heartbreaking update

This marked the concluding year for Kyle Parco, leaving numerous Iowa wrestling enthusiasts disheartened by the manner in which he will depart from the collegiate scene. A fan reported, “Per TrackWrestling, Iowa’s Kyle Parco has medically forfeited his consolation match after suffering what appeared to be a serious knee injury last night. Just an awful way to end to his college career. Parco finishes as a 4x All-American (2021-24) with a 115-24 record.” This fan expressed gratitude towards the wrestler for dedicating their time to Iowa, remarking, “A phenomenal human being. Thank you for choosing to be a Hawk.”

A fan expressed, “It was such a pleasure being able to watch Kyle wrestle in the black and gold! I wish the end of the season brought as much joy as it did in the beginning but nonetheless, the kid loved Carver! That smile every time he won, amazing! Thanks for the memories!!” When Parco joined the Iowa Hawkeyes, his statement underscored his resolve. “With one year left, I am still in the hunt for a national title and I am grateful for all the opportunities I have been given. Time to run it back one last time… in black and gold,” the wrestler announced on his social media.

So what did he bring to the table? Following his transfer from Arizona State, Parco took on the formidable challenge of competing under Coach Tom Brands in the highly competitive Big Ten Conference. This marked a significant transition for him during his last year in the NCAA.

Throughout the season, he demonstrated exceptional technical skills and resilience, achieving significant victories and establishing himself as a leading contender in the 149-pound weight class. This journey was not without its challenges, highlighted by a significant defeat against Penn State’s Shayne Van Ness during the Big Ten Championships. With an impressive 20-3 record this season, he is set to bid farewell to his college wrestling career.

A fan expressed their discontent, saying, “I hate seeing this. Heal quickly young man.” In a similar vein, another supporter remarked, “Brutal way to go. Speedy recovery.” As Parco’s journey in the NCAA has concluded, the focus shifts to the remaining Hawkeyes who are poised to pursue the coveted NCAA title.