Chambana Sun

The Illinois wrestling team, ranked 11th nationally, secured a decisive victory over Indiana, ranked 28th, with a score of 34-3. This win took place at the Big Ten Takedown event during the Big Ten Fan Fest in Indianapolis. The victory extends Illinois' undefeated streak to 6-0 for the season and marks their first conference win.

Lucas Byrd, a redshirt senior ranked second at 133 pounds, achieved his ninth consecutive win this season by defeating Angelo Rini from Indiana with a 3-0 decision. This match brought the score to an even three points each before Illinois went on to dominate the remaining bouts.

Danny Pucino, another standout performer for Illinois and ranked 19th at 141 pounds, defeated Henry Porter of Indiana with a 4-1 decision. Kannon Webster, a redshirt freshman ranked tenth at 149 pounds, pinned Anthony Bahl in just under five minutes (4:43), doubling Illinois' lead to 12-3.

In subsequent matches, Jason Kraisser and Braeden Scoles both won their bouts with identical scores of 2-0 against their respective opponents Ryan Garvick and Derek Gilcher. These victories pushed Illinois ahead to an 18-3 lead.

Danny Braunagel added more points for Illinois with an impressive major decision victory over Nick South at 174 pounds. Edmond Ruth continued the winning streak by securing a close win against DJ Washington at 184 pounds.

Zac Braunagel's high-scoring match ended in his favor with a narrow victory over Gabe Sollars at 197 pounds. Finally, Luke Luffman concluded the dual meet by pinning Jacob Bullock in less than six minutes.

Illinois will compete next in the Cougar Clash in Edwardsville on December 7th.