Some careers are defined by championships—others by resilience. Sammy Sasso’s legacy will have both. Following through in his struggle through unimaginable hardship—most significantly an injury that changed his life—official word has been brought forth the announcement of his retirement from NCAA wrestling.

The NCAA four-time and Big Ten double champ posted his emotional announcement to his social media handles, reminiscing about his experience. Though his college life is now behind him, his legacy in wrestling is not yet over.

Sammy Sasso’s NCAA career and his unforgettable return

Ohio State has been nothing short of marvelous to Sammy Sasso. Four All-Americans and an NCAA runner-up twice, he compiled an overall record of 106-19 in his six seasons to claim Big Ten championships in both 2021 and 2023 to cement his status among Ohio State’s best wrestlers.

But things turned around in August in 2023 when he was shot in a car-jacking, with injuries that put him in an uphill battle to even walk again, let alone return to the mat. Defiant in every way, Sasso made an incredible recovery to go down this season with a 12-7 win/loss record. His comeback was fraught with dogged determination to prove his fighting spirit was not subdued.

But in an effort to salvage his situation, he ended up making his most painful career choice—abandoning his quest to compete. Ohio State head coach Tom Ryan explained Sasso’s determination, saying his mentality was still to compete, “his body could no longer do what it used to.”

His final words were inspirational: “Life doesn’t always work out the way you want it to, but you just have to keep battling.” Though his goal was to compete in the U23 World Championships representing Team USA, his reality was for him to reassess his future. Sammy Sasso’s dream to win a national title was short lived, yet his determination in adversity has made him an unofficial champion to most.

What’s next for Sasso? Coaching and a lasting impact

Though his collegiate career is over, Sammy Sasso’s life in wrestling is not yet over. One of his remarks in his announcement was that his future is in coaching: “I know God will open new doors for me to coach and help athletes achieve their goals.”

His legacy can be felt in Ohio State wrestling to this present day, with him making regular visits to practice, to lead his fellow competitors in training for the Big Ten Championship. Coach Ryan has described his leadership: “He’s been to practice every day helping. He’s amazing.” Though he hung up his shoes, Sasso is not forgotten in the program.

Growing up in Lehigh Valley among top-shelf wrestlers and coaches who shaped his life was an experience that formed his career. He now wishes to return the favor to future generations. Wrestling has always been his passion, and his willingness to give something to the sport is proof of his character. In addition to his work in training, Sasso is an inspirational testament to determination, and his journey is something that future wrestlers will be inspired by for many years to come.

Sammy Sasso’s retirement is not just the end to an incredible chapter in his life, but the starting point to an entirely new chapter. His story is not just about wrestling—it is about overcoming adversity and finding purpose in life beyond the thrill and gone of competition. Though his career has not been ended with a national title, his legacy in his sport and his ability to inspire others is greater than any title.

What do you think of Sammy Sasso’s journey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below.