In the end, enough was enough. Despite six years of sheer dominance, and a career some can only dream, all it took was one wrestling match for a decision that would stun the world. After a 7-0 defeat vs Russia’s Abdulrashid Sadulaev in the qualification round of the World Championships in April 2024, the 34-year-old gave up. Just like that. “In the emotion of the moment after that letdown, I felt like I was done wrestling. I just didn’t have any ambition to compete any more,” the veteran had said last year. However, a new dawn was about to unfold—one that would even force him to fight his alma mater. But before we get to that…

During the 2024-25 wrestling season, Oklahoma State University entered a new era with head coach Taylor at the helm. From dominating the season 13-1 to storming their way to a Big 12 title to finishing the NCAA Championships third (replete with a historic win over an Olympic champion), one might wonder, what can’t the player-turned-coach do? Well, that question has resurfaced yet again as Taylor has just displayed a strong will to win, but this time outside the practice rooms.

Under his leadership, the Cowboys showcased impressive skill, finishing with a 13-1 dual meet record and securing their first Big 12 Championship since 2021. The NCAA Championships saw the team achieve a notable third-place finish, thanks in large part to impressive performances from Wyatt Hendrickson and Dean Hamiti Jr., who both claimed individual national titles in the heavyweight and 174-pound categories, respectively. Taylor’s first season not only breathed new life into the program but also positioned Oklahoma State as a serious competitor in the NCAA. His new plan? Take down Nittany Lions coach Cael Sanderson.

The community was taken aback when the Wrestling Room revealed on March 27: “In a stunning move, Ohio State’s Rocco Welsh transfers to Penn State.” Well, wait till you read the next part… “Apparently David Taylor didn’t like this too much and is flying directly to Rocco’s house this morning to TRY to change his mind… Magic Man doesn’t wanna give Cael an inch. This is insanity!” they wrote on X.

Ohio State sophomore Rocco Welsh showcased remarkable skill while competing unattached at 184 pounds. He clinched titles at the Clarion Open, Cleveland State Open, and the David H. Lehman Franklin & Marshall Open, boasting an unblemished 15-0 record along with an impressive 86.67% bonus point rate. Welsh made headlines by securing a bronze medal for Team USA at the 2025 Zagreb Open in Croatia.

The wrestler’s unwavering dominance this season highlights his potential as a serious contender in collegiate wrestling, making him a competitor David Taylor is keen to retain. But is there any possibility if Welsh stays with Ohio State? Not quite. A similar question was asked by a fan, to which Justin Basch replied, stating, “No, he’s gone.” The Cowboy coach is keen on having him on the team, and Taylor was not pleased to see him committing to Penn State.

UPDATE: An unexpected turn of events for David Taylor

On X, the Wrestling Room shared an update regarding the planned meeting between David Taylor and Rocco Welsh, announcing, “BREAKING: Rocco Welsh cancelled his last minute meeting with David Taylor this morning- turn off the jets- there will be no interference or chance to change this commitment. As reported yesterday, Rocco Welsh be a Penn State Nittany Lion. That was fun.”

What events unfolded? It appears that the Cowboys coach was unable to engage in any negotiations with the wrestler. Even if he had the intention to commit to Penn State, a brief conversation might have unveiled additional possibilities for both parties involved.

The decision for Welsh to choose any program other than the Nittany Lions is now entirely off the table. The social media report indicated that the wrestler called off the meeting, implying that he has already made a decision, as he aims to wear that Penn State singlet in the upcoming NCAA season. Unfortunately, this time David Taylor lost out to the sheer magnetism of Penn State.