Carter Starocci’s journey is nothing short of a wrestling legend in the making. Hailing from Erie, Pennsylvania, Carter’s path from a high school standout to the pinnacle of collegiate wrestling is the stuff of future folklore. Even as a teenager, the signs of his greatness were clear—two PIAA state championships under his belt set the stage for what would become an extraordinary wrestling career. But it wasn’t until he stepped onto the mats at Penn State that his true reign began.

At Penn State, Starocci didn’t just compete; he dominated. Becoming a four-time NCAA Division I National Champion by the age of 23, he carved his name into the annals of wrestling history. But don’t think for a second that he’s resting on his laurels. As he gears up for his final season at Penn State, the buzz isn’t just about his wrestling prowess—it’s about the rumored massive payday he might be pocketing.

With whispers of a $1.3 million deal swirling around, Carter isn’t letting the speculation distract him. Instead, he’s laser-focused on ending his collegiate career with a bang, ready to show the world why he’s not just a champion but a force to be reckoned with.

Carter Promises “Best Season” Ahead!

Carter Starocci has had enough of the rumors and is fired up to give everything on the mat. He recently took to X to announce his next move. “I have always been blessed. I don’t take anything for granted,” read his opening lines. For those following Carter, sounds like classic Carter Starocci isn’t it? Always dreaming big and always backing it up on the podium! But this was no feel-good post.

Carter went on to write, “I would say try again next season but next season gonna be my best season. No more salads, straight steaks, and goat meat.” That’s right fandom! Carter Starocci is hungry for more. Not just on-mat but off-mat too! “I always dream big, I always believe. I put everything aside. This has always been first.” Now that right there is a man with a mission that will not be deterred. But this post has more to say. It comes at a very interesting time.

Lately, the buzz around Carter isn’t about his wrestling skills but rather his rumored $1.3 million payout for his final year at Penn State. But Carter didn’t let the rumors fly without a response. He quickly shut down the chatter, posting, “Don’t speak about my pockets,” and adding a little mystery with, “Y’all don’t know the half of it.” So, what’s the real story?

Despite the noise, Carter’s focus remains razor-sharp. After narrowly missing a spot in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he’s back at Penn State, more determined than ever. With legendary head coach Cael Sanderson in his corner, Carter is gearing up to defend his NCAA title and cement his legacy in collegiate wrestling. But this season won’t be a walk in the park. The competition is tougher than ever, with former rival and Penn State hero David Taylor now coaching Ohio State’s rising stars.

Yet, Carter isn’t fazed. With unwavering focus and determination, he’s setting the stage for his “best season” yet, ready to silence the doubters and prove once again why he’s one of the best in the game.

Carter Starocci: A Legend in the Making

Carter Starocci’s rise to being the most celebrated wrestler in collegiate spaces did not happen overnight! The time Carter spent at Cathedral Preparatory School was nothing short of great. He graduated with two PIAA state championships and four state placements. After his arrival at Penn State, it did not take him long to create history.

Carter kicked off his journey with an unbeaten 19–0 record while redshirting. Wondering what he achieved in just his freshman year there? An NCAA Division I National Champion title! One of his most iconic matches was a rematch between Carter Starocci and Michael Kemerer. This match came after the 2020 Big Ten Championships, where Carter lost narrowly. But he was in the mood to not let that happen again. In that thrilling match, Carter won 3-2 during overtime.

Also, who can forget the 2022 NCAA Finals? Carter took on Virginia Tech’s Mekhi Lewis, a former national champion. He went on to win 6-5 and won his second NCAA title. The journey however has not been easy. Carter has battled some of the greats including Bo Nickal, Myles Martin, and Alex Dieringe on the mats. And now, as he gets ready to close the Penn State chapter, he intends to go out wearing 5 crowns. One thing’s for sure: win or lose, he’s leaving it all on the mat, yet also building it all from it.