Dean Peterson Reignites Rivalry with Luke Lilledahl: Social Media Jabs Stir Wrestling Community
Former Rutgers wrestler Dean Peterson has once again taken aim at Penn State’s standout freshman, Luke Lilledahl, intensifying their budding rivalry through pointed social media exchanges.
The tension between the two athletes began in January when Peterson handed Lilledahl his first collegiate loss with a 4-1 decision during a dual meet in Piscataway. Peterson didn’t hold back, posting “Faster than lightning” on X (formerly Twitter), a jab at Lilledahl’s nickname, “Lightnin’ Luke,” followed by the now-deleted hashtag “#fuckpennstate” .
Recently, after announcing his entry into the transfer portal, Peterson responded to a comment suggesting he “wouldn’t wrestle” at Penn State by stating, “Their starter is 0-1 against me π π,” referencing his previous victory over Lilledahl .
Despite the loss, Lilledahl rebounded impressively, capturing the Big Ten Championship at 125 pounds by defeating top-seeded Matt Ramos and Nebraska’s Caleb Smith . He concluded his freshman season as an NCAA All-American, securing a third-place finish at the national tournament .
As Peterson explores new opportunities, with indications pointing toward a potential move to Iowa, the wrestling community watches closely. Should Peterson join another Big Ten program, the prospect of a rematch with Lilledahl looms, promising to add another chapter to this intensifying rivalry
