😱 Edge‑of‑Your‑Seat Finish: Kyle Dake Stuns Penn State’s Carter Starocci in World Team Trials Thriller

😱 Edge‑of‑Your‑Seat Finish: Kyle Dake Stuns Penn State’s Carter Starocci in World Team Trials Thriller

At the U.S. World Team Trials in Louisville, wrestling fans witnessed a showdown for the ages. Penn State titan Carter Starocci, a five-time NCAA champion, nearly toppled two-time world champ Kyle Dake in the 86 kg finals—but heartbreak struck when a late takedown was overturned, handing Dake the narrow victory.

In an electrifying match that ended 3–3, Starocci appeared to secure a decisive takedown in the final seconds. The arena exploded—only for officials, upon instant replay, to reject the call, ruling the takedown came after time expired. The reversal handed the win to Dake on criteria, punching his ticket to Final X where he’ll challenge Zahid Valencia for a spot on the U.S. World Team .

For Starocci, the ride wasn’t easy. After backing Dake into a corner, he executed a perfect scramble. As the crowd rose, hand slams and cheers filled the arena—then fell silent as the review overturned what looked like his breakthrough moment. The sting of defeat was real—but so was his resilience.

Dake, meanwhile, displayed veteran poise. He not only secured the only takedown of the match earlier, but also stayed composed under immense pressure, weathering Starocci’s late charge and respecting the high-stakes drama at play .

This duel wasn’t just about titles—it was a preview of NLWC’s future shows, with teammates facing off and stakes pushing the boundaries of collegiate and international wrestling. Dake advances to Final X in June, while Starocci heads back to Pennsylvania, ready to refocus and chase redemption.

In a match defined by split-second decisions and razor-thin margins, one thing became clear: this rivalry is only beginning. And the wrestling world will be watching every move.