Eric Boggs
Ohio State wrestling fans will forever remember Sammy Sasso as one of the most determined and decorated competitors to ever don the Scarlet and Gray. On Thursday, head coach Tom Ryan announced that Sasso has wrestled his final match for the Buckeyes, bringing an end to an illustrious collegiate career that saw him overcome adversity and achieve remarkable success.
Sasso’s journey took an unexpected and difficult turn in August 2023 when he suffered a gunshot wound. Despite this significant setback, the seasoned wrestler fought his way back onto the mat, compiling a 12-7 record this season. Originally slated to compete for a spot in Ohio State’s lineup for the upcoming Big Ten Championships, Sasso ultimately decided to step away from competition in what he felt was the best decision for both himself and the program.
“Sammy is incredibly direct with his words and his thinking,” Coach Ryan stated. “At the beginning of the year, after his injury, he told me, ‘I will do everything in my power to get back to the level of wrestling I know I am capable of. If I can’t, I won’t wrestle anymore.’”
Ryan emphasized that Sasso’s willpower never wavered, but his body simply could not return to its former capabilities. “As difficult as it was for him to make this decision, he felt it was in the best interest of both himself and the team,” Ryan added. “This sport requires not only the mind but also the body to be at full strength, and Sammy made the tough but commendable choice.”
Sasso leaves behind an extraordinary legacy at Ohio State, finishing his career with an impressive 106-19 record. The four-time All-American captured Big Ten titles in 2021 and 2023 and twice reached the NCAA finals, narrowly falling to North Carolina’s Austin O’Connor in 2021 and Cornell’s Yianni Diakomihalis in 2023. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the program, and Buckeye Nation will always remember his tenacity and commitment.
While Sasso’s departure marks the end of an era, Ohio State wrestling continues to build momentum as the team prepares for the 2025 Big Ten Championships on March 8-9 at Welsh-Ryan Arena on Northwestern’s campus. Two Buckeyes recently stood atop the podium at the 2025 Patriot Last Chance Open in Fairfax, Virginia, showcasing the program’s depth and talent.
At 184 pounds, Ryder Rogotzke dominated his bracket, securing two pins before earning a hard-fought 3-1 decision victory over Hofstra’s Ross McFarland in the championship match. Not to be outdone, Seth Shumate put together an equally dominant performance at 197 pounds, winning all three of his bouts with bonus points, including a lightning-fast 35-second pin over Maryland’s Jack Darrah in the final.
Shumate’s triumph at the Patriot Last Chance Open marked his second consecutive title, following his first-place finish at the 2025 Mat Town College Open on February 17 at Lock Haven University. He went 4-0 in that event, further cementing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the Buckeyes’ lineup. Brandon Cannon (157) also earned a championship at the Mat Town Open, adding to Ohio State’s recent successes.
As the Buckeyes gear up for the Big Ten Championships, these performances highlight the strength and depth of the program. With rising stars stepping up and seasoned veterans leading the way, Ohio State remains a formidable contender on the national stage. While the loss of a legend like Sammy Sasso is significant, the Buckeyes’ tradition of excellence continues, and the future remains bright for Ohio State wrestling.
