🏆 Rocco Welsh’s U23 National Title Stuns Wrestling World—Is He Penn State’s Next Heavy-Hitter?

🏆 Rocco Welsh’s U23 National Title Stuns Wrestling World—Is He Penn State’s Next Heavy-Hitter?

Fresh off his high-profile transfer from Ohio State, Rocco Welsh has exploded onto the Penn State wrestling scene by capturing gold at the 2025 U23 National Championships in Geneva, Ohio. In flawless style, Welsh went 7–0 at 86 kg, sealing the title with back-to-back victories (4–2, 6–3) over Maryland’s NCAA medalist Jaxon Smith .

More than just a trophy, this win signals Welsh’s intent to carry Penn State’s dominant legacy forward. A former NCAA finalist for Ohio State, he wasted no time blending into PSU’s roster—and he’s already eyeing a key role at 184 pounds, the spot vacated by retiring legend Carter Starocci .

Less than 90 days ago, Welsh announced his transfer, citing the unmatched talent and training at Penn State as the reason behind his bold switch . His decision clearly paid off: he’s not only a national champion, but also one of seven current or future Nittany Lions to qualify for the U23 World Team, positioning him for the fall’s U23 World Championships in Serbia .

Already known for his relentless pace and technical precision, Welsh dedicated himself to wrestling year-round: “There is really no off time for me,” he told the Observer-Reporter. “This is the biggest part of the year” .

Penn State wrestling, helmed by Cael Sanderson, just secured their 13th NCAA team title and are showing no signs of slowing their ironclad approach . With Welsh bringing fire to a loaded roster, the question isn’t whether Penn State will continue its dominance—it’s how much bigger Welsh will help them build it.