Star Wrestler's Brawl Doesn't KO His College Dreams

A recent incident involving Anthony Knox Jr., the nation's top-ranked 126-pound wrestler, made headlines after a brawl at a district tournament in New Jersey led to his arrest. Despite the controversy, his college career remains on track. Knox, already a champion at the NJ District 25 Wrestling Tournament at Collingswood High School, was aiming for his fourth consecutive state title. However, following the 190-pound final, a fight erupted in the stands, drawing in Anthony Knox Sr., and eventually, his son, Anthony Jr. The aftermath saw both father and son arrested, according to Jersey Sports Zone. Knox Jr. faced disqualification from the state tournament in Atlantic City. However, Mike Grey, Cornell University’s wrestling coach, assured that Knox Jr. will still have a future with the university's wrestling program. There's talk about him possibly deferring enrollment until 2026-27. The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) released a statement explaining their decision to disqualify Knox Jr. from the state tournament. "Earlier today, I informed the Saint John Vianney High School administration that the student-athlete wrestling in the 126-pound weight class has been disqualified from the NJSIAA wrestling state tournament," said NJSIAA Executive Director Colleen Maguire. She cited violations of the association’s sportsmanship policy and the disqualification rule for leaving the bench area during an altercation. Maguire added, "Let it be clear, the association cannot, and will not, condone actions that violate its sportsmanship policy or its member school-approved rules." Knox Jr. also addressed the situation on Instagram, stating, "Like anyone, my only concern at that time was protecting the safety of my family... No matter what happens next, I will continue to train, compete, and push myself to be the best wrestler and person I can be as I continue my career onward at Cornell University."