Eric Boggs
The Covelli Center roared with energy Thursday night as Ohio State wrestling fans welcomed back Sammy Sasso, the heart and soul of Buckeye wrestling. After enduring a harrowing 15-month recovery from a near-fatal shooting in August 2023, the four-time All-American made his triumphant return to the mat in Ohio State’s season-opening dual against Chattanooga.
Sasso, now wrestling at 165 pounds, earned a gritty 12-6 victory over Jackson Hurst. The home crowd erupted as he made his way to the mat, and Sasso didn’t disappoint. Three first-period takedowns gave him a commanding 9-4 lead. He extended his advantage with a reversal early in the second period, entering the final frame up 11-5. Though Hurst managed an escape point in the third, Sasso controlled the match’s closing moments to secure a six-point decision and his first win in over 600 days.
This wasn’t just another victory; it was a testament to Sasso’s resilience and unyielding determination. After the 2023 shooting left him with severe nerve damage, a reconstructed colon, and the daunting challenge of relearning how to walk, many wondered if Sasso would ever compete again. But for Sasso, anything less than a return to elite competition was never an option.
“I knew there were going to be a lot of emotions tonight,” Sasso told Big Ten Network after the match. “I just tried to stay focused on wrestling. I’m so grateful for my coaches, teammates, family, and Buckeye Nation for supporting me through this journey.”
Sasso’s return was the highlight of a dominant 36-6 team victory for the No. 6 Buckeyes. Ohio State claimed nine of 10 matches, with standout performances from Brendan McCrone (125), Jesse Mendez (141), Luke Geog (197), and Nick Feldman (HWT), all earning tech fall victories. The only blemish on the night came at 174 pounds, where Bryce Hepner had to default due to injury.
The evening also featured a special recognition of Ohio State’s 2015 National Championship team, adding to the celebration of Buckeye wrestling history.
Now 1-0 on the season, Ohio State shifts its focus to Sunday’s road dual against Edinboro (2-0). Sasso will be back in the lineup as the Buckeyes look to maintain their momentum. Additionally, two Ohio State stars, Mendez and Feldman, will showcase their skills on Saturday at the NWCA All-Star Classic in State College, Pennsylvania. Mendez, ranked No. 2 at 141, will face Penn State’s No. 3 Beau Bartlett, while Feldman, ranked No. 3 at heavyweight, takes on Campbell’s No. 7 Taye Ghadiali.
For Sasso and Ohio State wrestling, Thursday night wasn’t just a victory—it was a statement. The Buckeyes are back, and so is their leader.
