Ohio State’s wrestling team began its home dual season with a commanding 44-0 victory over Kent State at the Covelli Center on Thursday. The Buckeyes, currently ranked second nationally and holding a 6-0 record, won all ten matches, including seven by bonus points.
Redshirt freshman Ben Davino was recognized earlier in the day as the Big Ten Freshman of the Week following his undefeated run at the National Duals Invitational, where he contributed to Ohio State’s team title. He also received national athlete of the week honors from USA Wrestling for his performance.
In Thursday’s meet, Brendan McCrone opened with a 9-0 major decision at 125 pounds. Davino followed with a technical fall win (20-4) at 133 pounds. Jesse Mendez pinned his opponent in just 1:18 at 141 pounds. Maddox Shaw secured a sudden victory win at 149 pounds. At 157 pounds, Brandon Cannon earned another technical fall, winning 21-5.
Paddy Gallagher posted a 5-2 decision at 165 pounds. Carson Kharchla recorded a technical fall (19-4) at 174 pounds. Dylan Fishback made his home debut with a technical fall (17-2) at 184 pounds. Seth Shumate edged out a decision (5-3) at 197 pounds before Nick Feldman closed the event with a technical fall (20-4) in the heavyweight match.
Head coach Tom Ryan commented on Ohio State’s home opener and discussed adding Ohio native Dylan Fishback to the roster: “Tom Ryan discusses Ohio State’s home opener against Kent State and the addition of Ohio native Dylan Fishback to the roster.”
The event drew an attendance of 3,512 spectators.
Ohio State will continue its homestand by hosting Bellarmine on December 3 at Covelli Center. The match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start and will be streamed live on B1G+.