Standing in today’s date, very few names resonate as loudly as Bo Bassett’s in the world of high school wrestling. A dominant force from Bishop McCort High School, the 17-year-old has carved out a legacy with a perfect 100-0 record, highlighted by three major titles this season. It includes: Super 32, Powerade, and Ironman. Adding to that, Bassett’s viral moves and unparalleled dedication have made him a favorite among fans and collegiate scouts alike. Yet, even with his accolades, a new narrative is emerging. Is Bo Bassett truly the best prospect in high school wrestling?

Enter Jaxen Forrest. Jax Forrest, another 17-year-old rising star from Bishop McCort, is a name gaining increasing traction in the wrestling community. A class of 2026 wrestler Forrest has already secured a silver medal at the U17 World Championships in 2022. He also finished fourth at this year’s U.S. Olympic Trials. While Bassett dazzles with an undefeated record and spectacular technique, Forrest’s international experience and ability to compete against elite-level wrestlers have sparked a heated debate among experts.

UFC legend Chael Sonnen recently weighed in on this discussion, tilting the scales in Forrest’s favor. Posting a video from his official YouTube channel ‘Chael Sonnen’ on January 12, Sonnen admitted: “Popular opinion is going to say Bo Bassett. What Bo has done with social media and embracing that…he can make getting up at 4 in the morning and training fun. That’s a very difficult skill.” “But is he the best? No. No, the answer would be no,” Sonnen added. Citing Forrest’s battles with top-tier opponents like U17 World Champion Linden, Sonnen emphasized the 17-year-old’s resilience and pedigree, declaring, “Go take a look at Jax. For me to explain to you some of the people that Jax beat… it would be difficult to really explain what you saw there.”

Despite their contrasting strengths, both Bassett and Forrest are ranked as the No. 1 and No. 2 juniors in the nation by FloWrestling. Their position has indeed cemented Bishop McCort as the epicenter of high school wrestling talent. Bassett, the 2021 Cadet World Freestyle Champion, continues to dominate domestically, while Forrest’s global exploits have made him a standout among recruiters.

The competition between these two prodigies is more than just about rankings. While Bassett’s magnetic personality and unmatched record make him a fan favorite, Forrest’s ability to excel in high-pressure scenarios and take on world-class opponents sets him apart. And amid this comparison, Bassett at just 17 has done what few would consider a possible.

Despite comparisons, Bo Bassett is redefining wrestling greatness with teen prowess

Bo Bassett has thrust himself into a debate typically reserved for wrestling royalty. When FloWrestling Radio Live named him in their ‘Wrestler of the Year’ discussion alongside icons like Spencer Lee, a three-time NCAA champion, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, it wasn’t just a nod to his skill—it was a seismic shift in how the sport views its future.

Bassett’s rise isn’t just about wins. This season, he tore through elite competitions, tech-falling every opponent at the Ironman Tournament and pinning his way to another Powerade Wrestling crown. His relentless style and big-stage composure have earned him the moniker “17-year-old horror,” a fitting description for someone who’s made seasoned athletes look pedestrian.

For wrestling experts, Bassett’s inclusion in such a prestigious conversation signals more than just recognition. It resonates as a declaration that he’s no longer the future, he’s the now. As he continues to dismantle records and rivalries, the wrestling world is left wondering one question. ‘How high can Bo Bassett climb before he’s no longer compared to legends but crowned as one himself?’

Now, as the NCAA contact period begins, the spotlight will shine brighter on these two phenoms. For the moment, the wrestling world remains split on who truly holds the crown, but one thing is certain. The future of wrestling lies in extraordinary hands.