2025 is no regular wrestling season for Carter Starocci— it’s a time-bound portal for him to create wrestling history. And looks like he’s off to a flying start! After 4 years of competing in the 174-pound category, he’s shifted to the 184 class for his fifth collegiate season, and its proving to be a wise choice. As he’s now passed his first test in the category at the 2024 NWCA All-Star Classic, although with a minor hiccup that was glaringly evident.

This Saturday, at Rec Hall, the Penn State star ranked No. 1 at 184 took down No. 2 Parker Keckeisen by 4-1. Although, it wasn’t easy for the youngster to break through the defense of the defending national champion. But, Starocci eventually grabbed a sudden victory with 0:27 left on the timer, although the tackle ended up injuring him on the face.

However, even amid blood running down his forehead, Carter Starocci did not appear troubled. Instead, he welcomed his season-opening win calmly and proved that he’s ready to put in all the sweat and blood it takes to triumph this year. After all, he had warned, “There is only One Champ,” in an X post a few hours ago.

For a short bout recap, the tussle between the two went on for three whole periods. In the first bit, Carter Starocci kept attacking and working the center of the mat, while Parker kept his defense reflexes on. Resultantly, they moved into the second period with 0-0, where the PSU star managed to bag a quick 1-0 lead.

What was great that Carter could maintain the lead going into the third period, fending off attempts from Parker to level the scores. But eventually, the Northern Iowa champion managed to squeeze through it, sending them both into sudden victory with 1-1. Here, Parker defended Carter Starocci’s first attack, but the second one was too good to escape from, resulting in his 4-1 loss.

Well, it was in this moment that Carter’s comeback words, “I’m here to take over” echoed in minds. And it dusted off all the speculations regarding his weight class change.

Carter Starocci’s instinct proved right

There was great discussion around the topic that will Carter Starocci’s weight class shift prove to be challenge for him. This led coach Cael Sanderson to clarify, “(Carter) won four national titles before at 174, but it’s getting tougher and tougher for him to keep that weight down.” But the wrestler felt, 184 was his ‘natural’ weight class.

He even agreed that his coaches had been wanting him to shift to 184 since last year but, he says he can get pretty stubborn with things like that. However, once he made the decision, Carter never feared the challenges that this mega shift would bring in his career. In fact, the wrestler’s perspective was, “You’re always being challenged in many many areas on if you’re making those adjustments on getting better.”  

And this win does not add to any official records, but will be a strong morale boost for Carter Starocci, who’d be happy with both his decisions, to come back to PSU for his final year and shift his competing category. What do you think? Share your thoughts below!