Reigning World Champion Masanosuke Ono from Japan Commits to Penn State Wrestling
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, Penn State Wrestling has secured one of the most surprising and exciting commitments imaginable. Just 36 hours after a dominant performance that shattered NCAA tournament records, the Nittany Lions landed a commitment from none other than Masanosuke Ono, the reigning World Champion from Japan.
At just 20 years old, Ono became the talk of the wrestling world last October when he stormed through the Senior Freestyle World Championships in Albania. With explosive athleticism and impeccable technique, Ono defeated former Olympic Champion Zavur Uguev and defending World Champion Vito Arujau, ultimately claiming the 61kg World Title. After his victory, Ono made waves in the wrestling community when he announced, in broken English, that he planned to train “at Penn State.”
What started as a brief visit turned into a full-fledged stay at Happy Valley, where Ono trained with the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club in preparation for an upcoming match against former Iowa standout and Olympic Silver Medalist Spencer Lee—a match that Ono won. During this time, speculation ran wild, with some jokingly wondering if Ono might end up wrestling for Penn State’s collegiate Folkstyle team.
Now, that speculation has become reality. Ono recently confirmed on FloWrestling Radio Live, and later through his Instagram, that he will officially join Penn State’s Folkstyle team. As for the details, Ono remained playful yet cryptic. While he joked that he could compete anywhere from 125lbs to 157lbs, it seems most likely that he will wrestle at 133lbs or 141lbs—weight classes that will offer some thrilling matchups in the coming seasons.
Ono’s decision to join the prestigious Penn State Wrestling program is a massive win for the team and a statement of intent for the Nittany Lions as they continue to build a dynasty in the sport. With his world-class experience and remarkable skill set, Ono’s presence on the roster is sure to elevate the program to new heights. Fans and analysts alike will be watching eagerly as Ono transitions into the Folkstyle format and prepares to make an immediate impact on the collegiate scene.