WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — Senior standout Khyvon Grace has been named this week's Hilltopper of the Week after earning a statement victory on the national stage at the NWCA All-Star Classic on Saturday at Rutgers University.

Competing at 141 pounds, Grace defeated defending NCAA Division III national champion Mark Samuel (Roanoke) with a late takedown to seal an 8–6 victory in one of the showcase's most exciting bouts. The win highlighted Grace's poise, endurance, and championship-level talent as he opened his senior campaign in impressive fashion.

A two-time NCAA qualifier and 2025 NCAA Division II national finalist, Grace leads the Hilltoppers into the new season ranked No. 2 nationally — the highest individual ranking for any West Liberty wrestler. He finished last year with a 16–7 record, earning runner-up honors at the NCAA Super Regional III and placing third at the MEC Championships.

Grace's win over a reigning national champion sets the tone for another promising season as he and the HIlltoppers prepare to host No.3 UPJ Thursday at the ASRC.