A new addition to the Cowboys team has praised Taylor, saying, “Coach Taylor is the best wrestler in the world.” Recently, a new talent was transferred to Oklahoma State University from the Air Force Academy. Who? Wyatt Hendrickson, a heavyweight wrestler, has captured the heart of no one else but Olympic gold medalist David Taylor.
Hendrickson’s rapid growth and rare flair on the mat have attracted the attention of one of the best athletes in the world. Every time a pro comes against Hendrickson, he shows that he is a powerful opponent who flexes his muscles with style, speed, versatility, and a delivery that forces others to surrender to his music. Hendrickson has shown his worth on the mat, and David Taylor didn’t take a step back in acknowledging him. What did Taylor say?
“That’s all him”: David Taylor gives all the credit to Wyatt Hendrickson.
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Who doesn’t want praise or acknowledgment from a mentor? Everybody does. The same way Wyatt Hendrickson wanted from David Taylor, and his great performances helped him earn acknowledgment from the coach. Recently, a Group 1 force protection officer wrestled against Arizona State’s Cohlton Schultz, and what a performance!
David Taylor expressed his observation about Hendrickson and talked about how he makes needful adjustments during bouts and has a good presence of mind. Taylor said, “He is pretty gifted, and he is just learning every time he steps out there. It is fun to see the adjustments he makes from match to match, the things we are looking for, and even the improvements that he makes within a match. I think he continues to get better and is having some fun out there.” Hendrickson beat Schultz with an 11-5 decision at Gallagher-Iba Arena on Sunday.
Hendrickson is the first-ever heavyweight who has done backflips. Did you know Hendrickson was a member of the tumbling team in high school? Surprised, right? But that’s the truth. When asked about that, Taylor continued, “I hope he land on his feet.” He added, “I think in wrestling there is an element of showmanship, and he likes it and embraces it. I think his wrestling backs it up.”
When asked about Hendrickson’s sneaky mustache, OSU head coach David Taylor didn’t take any credit and praised Wyatt Hendrickson only. He said, “No, that’s all him, all him.” As Hendrickson got all the praise he deserved, he is all geared up for upcoming matches.
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Who might Hendrickson face in future bouts?
Wyatt Hendrickson started the season with a 4-0 record and now a ranked win over top-five opponents, including Cohlton Schultz. In that match in GIA, Hendrickson took less than a minute to let Schultz escape and ended the first period with a score of 3-1 and no point in the second one. In the third period, Hendrickson again controlled the match and won with a decisive score of 11-5.
As Hendrickson is in good form in the NCAA season 2025 at OSU, the wrestling world is abuzz with the possibility of a high-stakes showdown against Gable Steveson. Under Taylor’s leadership, Hendrickson’s improvement and victory hint at a season full of exciting matchups. Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson Apart from Steveson, Hendrickson can face Greg Kerkvliet of Penn State. This was not David Taylor’s first win as OSU’s head coach; the OSU team dusted Wyoming with a score of 23-6.
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The next OSU matches are scheduled for November 6 and 13. In a press conference after OSU’s victory, David talked about what changes Hendrickson needs to make to perform better. He said, “You know, uh, there’s just adjustments that we’re talking about, and it’s just good to see him out there doing those things.” Hendrickson proves himself a formidable contender, blending athleticism, adaptability, and undeniable charisma.
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Can Wyatt Hendrickson's flair and skill match up against Gable Steveson in a future showdown?
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Can Wyatt Hendrickson's flair and skill match up against Gable Steveson in a future showdown?
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