Chambana Sun

The University of Illinois wrestling team, ranked No. 12 nationally, split its matches during the second session of the National Duals Invitational in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Illini lost to No. 4 Iowa with a score of 24-13 but rebounded to defeat No. 7 Lehigh, 21-13.

Lucas Byrd was a standout for Illinois, winning all three of his matches on the day and reaching a career milestone of 100 wins. His overall record now stands at 100-16, including a 44-3 mark in dual meets.

Against Iowa, Byrd faced Drake Ayala for the third time this year and secured a 7-2 decision win. "Byrd had a rematch with a familiar foe in No. 2 Drake Ayala whom he beat in March in the Big Ten and NCAA finals. This time around it was no different as Byrd cruised to a 7-2 decision win to tie the dual back up at three, the closest it would get the rest of the night." However, Iowa claimed victories in several subsequent weight classes and maintained their lead throughout most of the meet.

Illinois’ Kannon Webster also earned a major decision over Jordan Williams at 157 pounds, but Iowa won four consecutive matches afterward to secure their victory. In the final bout, Luke Luffman received an injury default win over Gage Marty.

In their matchup against Lehigh, Illinois fell behind early but regained momentum after Byrd’s technical fall victory marked his 100th career win. "Lehigh got on the board first winning the first bout before No. 1 Byrd earned bonus points in his 20-4 (6:31) tech. fall win over Mason Ziegler which turned out to be his 100th career win."

After falling behind again mid-dual, Illinois rallied with wins from Colin Kelly and Chris Moore to take back the lead at 14-13. Cade Lautt and Luke Luffman closed out with victories that secured Illinois’ upset over Lehigh.

The Illini will continue competition on November 16 against No. 11 Virginia Tech for another chance at advancing in the tournament bracket.