Get ready for a wrestling showdown that promises to be the perfect cap to 2025! App State Wrestling is gearing up for their final competition of the year, and it’s a Wednesday night dual at Duke that you won’t want to miss. But here’s where it gets intense: this isn’t just any match—it’s a clash of ranked athletes, rising stars, and a coaching connection that adds an extra layer of intrigue. Let’s dive into why this event is shaping up to be a must-watch.
The action kicks off at 6 p.m. in the iconic Cameron Indoor Stadium, a change from the usual Card Gym. Admission is free, and if you can’t make it in person, catch the live stream on ACCNX. The Mountaineers (2-4) have battled through a grueling schedule, proving their mettle against top-tier opponents like No. 17 West Virginia and No. 9 NC State. Despite their record, they’ve secured impressive wins, including a standout performance by Stephan Monchery, the heavyweight sensation on an 11-match winning streak. Monchery could face Duke’s Connor Barket, ranked No. 23, in a rematch that’s sure to spark fireworks—Barket dominated with a tech fall last season, but Monchery’s current form suggests this could be a very different story.
And this is the part most people miss: App State’s roster is stacked with talent. Kaden Keiser (149 pounds), Tomas Brooker (184), and Jarvis Little (133) are all ranked in the top 33 of their weight classes, making them serious contenders. Duke, meanwhile, boasts Aidan Wallace (174 pounds), ranked No. 22 by Intermat, alongside Barket. The Blue Devils (5-3) are having their best season since 2021-22, with notable wins against Hofstra and Gardner-Webb. But here’s the twist: Duke’s coaching staff now includes Codi Russell, an App State alum and four-time NCAA qualifier. Will his insider knowledge give Duke an edge, or will App State’s familiarity with his style neutralize the advantage? It’s a question that adds another layer of drama to this dual.
Controversial take alert: Some argue that Duke’s recent success is a fluke, while others believe they’re on the rise. What do you think? Is Duke’s winning streak sustainable, or will App State’s seasoned lineup prove too much to handle? Let us know in the comments!
Here’s a look at the probable lineups for both teams:
App State Probables
- 125: Cooper Foster
- 133: Jarvis Little
- 141: Aldo Hernandez
- 149: #28 Kaden Keiser
- 157: Jeremiah Price
- 165: Anthony Conetta
- 174: Colt Campbell
- 184: #33 Tomas Brooker
- 197: Logan Eller
- Hwt: Stephan Monchery
Duke Probables
- 125: Riley Rowan
- 133: John King
- 141: Raymond Adams
- 149: SP O'Donnell/Dylan Ross
- 157: Mikey Boulanger
- 165: Aurelius Dunbar
- 174: #22 Aidan Wallace
- 184: David Hussey
- 197: Owen McGrory
- Hwt: #23 Connor Barket
Presented by Hungry Howie's and Penn Station, the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be unforgettable. Don’t miss this final showdown—it’s not just about wins and losses, but the stories, rivalries, and moments that make wrestling so captivating. Who will end the year on top? Tune in to find out!
