Penn State and NLWC Wrestlers Stand Out at Final X 2025, Sending Two to World Championships
The spotlight was firmly fixed on the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on June 14, 2025, as Final X took center stage in the world of American wrestling. This premier event determined who would represent the United States at the 2025 Senior World Championships in freestyle wrestling. For Penn State University and its affiliated Nittany Lion Wrestling Club (NLWC), the event was a major showcase of strength, preparation, and high-level performance. Seven wrestlers with ties to Penn State competed for spots on the U.S. National Team—and two emerged as champions in their respective weight classes, officially earning their place on the 2025 U.S. World Team.
Final X is a highly anticipated event in the USA Wrestling calendar, featuring the top two athletes in each weight class battling in a best-of-three format. Winners in each division go on to represent Team USA at the World Championships, which this year will take place in Zagreb, Croatia. The stakes were high, but the athletes from Penn State and its Olympic Regional Training Center rose to the occasion.
Levi Haines Shines Bright at 79 kg
Among the standout performances of the night was Levi Haines, who competed at 79 kg. Facing Evan Wick, a seasoned competitor, Haines looked dominant from the outset. In the opening match, Haines recorded a lightning-fast 10-0 technical fall, sending a clear message to fans and opponents alike. He followed up with a 6-1 decision in the second bout, completing a two-match sweep. This emphatic performance not only earned Haines a spot on the World Team but also positioned him as a strong medal contender heading into Zagreb.
Kyle Snyder Adds Another Chapter at 97 kg
One of the most decorated American wrestlers of his era, Kyle Snyder once again proved why he’s a staple of Team USA. Wrestling at 97 kg, Snyder faced Hayden Zillmer in the finals. In true veteran fashion, Snyder executed with precision and control, winning the first match 8-0 and the second 8-2. With this win, Snyder earned yet another berth on the U.S. World Team, continuing a legacy that includes Olympic and World Championship success.
Five Wrestlers Secure National Team Status
Although only two Penn State-connected wrestlers qualified for the World Team, five others delivered strong enough performances to earn spots on the U.S. National Team. These wrestlers either finished as runners-up in the Final X series or won their ‘true third’ matches to secure the final National Team slot in their weight class.
Mitchell Mesenbrink Nearly Breaks Through at 74 kg
Mesenbrink’s challenge came in the form of David Carr, one of the top competitors in the 74 kg bracket. Their first match was a nail-biter, with Mesenbrink narrowly losing 4-3. The second match ended in a 4-4 tie, with Carr winning by criteria. Despite the tough outcome, Mesenbrink’s runner-up finish was enough to earn a National Team spot, and his performance underscored his potential for future World Team appearances.
Josh Barr Pushes Trent Hidlay at 92 kg
At just 92 kg, Josh Barr showed he belonged on the big stage. Taking on Trent Hidlay, Barr lost both matches—6-1 and 3-2—but displayed composure and resilience. His ability to keep the scores close against an experienced opponent highlighted his progress as a rising star. A second-place finish ensured his place on the National Team and marked a significant step forward in his freestyle journey.
Luke Lilledahl Tests Himself at 57 kg
Facing off against the formidable Spencer Lee, Luke Lilledahl had perhaps the toughest draw of the night. Lee, known for his aggressive and relentless style, won both matches—7-2 and 6-0. Nevertheless, Lilledahl’s runner-up performance qualified him for the National Team and gave him valuable experience that will serve him well in the future.
Kyle Dake Experiments at 86 kg
One of the more closely watched matchups featured Kyle Dake, who made a move to the 86 kg weight class. He faced Zahid Valencia in the Final X series and dropped both matches—5-3 and 4-1. Though he didn’t come away with a World Team spot, Dake’s runner-up result locked in a place on the National Team. The change in weight could signal a long-term transition for Dake, who has previously excelled at 74 and 79 kg.
Carter Starocci Grabs Final Spot with ‘True Third’ Win
Before the Final X finals, Carter Starocci squared off against Parker Keckeisen in a critical “true third” match for the final 86 kg National Team berth. In a tightly contested bout, Starocci pulled out a 4-3 win. The result was more than just a victory; it marked an important breakthrough in Starocci’s freestyle development and put him firmly on the national radar.
Bigger Implications for Penn State Wrestling
The 2025 Final X event reinforced the exceptional caliber of Penn State Wrestling and its Regional Training Center. With two wrestlers heading to the World Championships and five more earning National Team honors, the program’s influence on American freestyle wrestling continues to grow. These results underscore the strength of Penn State’s pipeline, which blends collegiate excellence with elite international preparation.
The success of the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club and its RTC also illustrates the seamless transition many athletes are making from NCAA to international competition. Veterans like Snyder and Dake continue to lead by example, while younger talents such as Haines, Barr, and Lilledahl are rapidly rising through the ranks.
Looking Toward Zagreb and Beyond
With the Final X behind them, the focus for Haines and Snyder now turns to the World Championships in Croatia. Both are expected to contend for medals and serve as key leaders for Team USA. Meanwhile, the National Team members will continue to train, gain experience, and prepare for future international opportunities.
In conclusion, Final X 2025 was a major milestone for Penn State and its Olympic RTC. Levi Haines and Kyle Snyder earned their spots on the World Team, while Mitchell Mesenbrink, Josh Barr, Luke Lilledahl, Kyle Dake, and Carter Starocci secured National Team recognition. Together, this group reflects the depth, ambition, and excellence of a program that continues to shape the future of U.S. wrestling on the global stage.
