Update on Iowa’s status at 184 lbs post Soldier Salute #ncaawrestling #frl pic.twitter.com/IqFkoy88tN

— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) January 4, 2025

“So does Angelo put you over the line to win a title this year? I don’t think so. which we don’t know. Right now, Angelo’s best win is Evan Bockman, and we have seen Gabe beat some guys,” he added. Arnold has four wins against ranked opponents, including the highest-ranked win over Will Feldkamp. This highlights that Arnold’s performance might better serve this season’s title aspirations. However, Arnold’s withdrawal from Soldier Salute raised a lot of questions on team dynamics.

The impact of unexpected events on the team’s dynamic post Soldier Salute

In the wake of Gabe Arnold’s unexpected exit from the Soldier Salute, Coach Tom Brands‘ silence became a discussion. According to HawkFanatic, Iowa wrestling coach Tom Brands spoke with members of the media Friday. However, when he did not disclose any information about Arnold’s unexpected exit, it left the entire wrestling community frustrated. The team also shared a picture of Ferrari picking up his trophy after a swift victory on X.

Arnold’s forfeit due to a medical problem was a straight win for Ferrari over his teammate. This unexpected turn of events disappointed fans who had been eagerly anticipating the showdown. One fan stated, “So lame they didn’t wrestle.” Another shared their frustration, saying, “I hate to be the wrestling naysayer, but this was probably the most anticipated match of the weekend, and it didn’t happen. Bummer.” Wrestling is a brutal sport, but it’s the bouts on the mat that bring the real thrill. Watching Arnold and Ferrari wrestle against each other on the mat raised the fans’ excitement. They wanted to see the two go against each other, making the forfeit a disappointment.

The frustration quickly escalated, with fans directing their disappointment and blame toward the coach. Iowa’s head coach, Tom Brands, was criticized for his decision-making as one fan stated, “This is why Brands needs to go.” One fan wrote, “Thought Iowa liked tough wrestlin? Wussies.” Another fan added, “Come on, man, I just wanted to see these two go down against each other on the mat.” The Iowa City Area Sports Commission was responsible for organizing the Soldier Salute. Hence, it was their duty to make sure that the event goes smoothly. The situation opened a window for blame to directly target the University of Iowa. This added an air of mystery and speculation around the situation.

The Soldier Salute controversy has placed Iowa wrestling’s choices under the microscope, sparking debate amongst the wrestling community. While Arnold’s medical forfeit introduced speculations, Ferrari’s redshirt decision means gains in the longer run. Will these choices lead Iowa to the results they are aiming for?