WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The No. 19-ranked West Liberty University men's wrestling team opens its 2025–26 dual season Thursday night with a marquee showdown against No. 3 Pitt-Johnstown at the ASRC. First whistle is set for 6:30 p.m., and the evening will also feature a special Alumni Night celebration.
The Hilltoppers, winners of the last two meetings with the Mountain Cats — including a 23–10 road win last season and a 20–14 victory at home in 2023 — enter the dual ranked among the nation's elite once again. West Liberty checks in at No. 19 in the NWCA Division II Preseason Poll with six nationally ranked wrestlers.
"This dual is one that everyone in and around our program looks forward to," said head coach Danny Irwin. "There is nothing like a big dual atmosphere, and I am excited to see our athletes go out there with an abundance of aggression. We look forward to honoring our alumni at the intermission of the dual. The Hilltop is home, and it has been amazing to have so many back year after year showcasing that WLU has played an integral part in our lives."
West Liberty enters Thursday's home opener following a dominant performance at the Mount Union Invitational, where three Hilltoppers captured individual titles — James Armstrong Jr. (133 lbs.), Nico Taddy (157 lbs.), and Carter Winegardner (174 lbs.) — while several others reached the podium.
The Hilltoppers' lineup features experience and depth across all weight classes, led by two-time NCAA qualifier and national finalist Khyvon Grace, who begins the season ranked No. 2 at 141 pounds, the highest mark for any West Liberty wrestler. Grace made headlines last weekend at the NWCA All-Star Classic at Rutgers University, earning a statement win over defending NCAA Division III national champion Mark Samuel (Roanoke) with a dramatic late takedown for an 8–6 victory.
Other ranked Hilltoppers include Logan Davis (#12 at 125), Armstrong (#10 at 133), Tony Wood (#14 at 149), Jordan Watters (#12 at 165), and Parker Bentley (#12 at heavyweight).
Pitt-Johnstown, ranked No. 3 nationally, brings a powerhouse roster under head coach Tyler Reinhart. The Mountain Cats feature six nationally ranked wrestlers, including top-ranked All-Americans Trevon Gray (125) and Isaiah Vance (285). Both programs are known for their toughness and tradition, setting up another classic in this growing rivalry.
"We're excited to open our dual season at home against a program with Pitt-Johnstown's tradition," Irwin added. "It's a great early test for our guys. These are the types of matches that make you better and prepare you for what's ahead in the conference and national tournaments."
Projected Lineups
West Liberty
125 – #12 Logan Davis
133 – #10 James Armstrong Jr.
141 – #2 Khyvon Grace / Matt Englehardt
149 – #14 Tony Wood
157 – Nico Taddy
165 – Bodie Morgan / Tyson Mills
174 – Carter Winegardner
184 – Devon Bell
197 – Oliver Byerly
285 – #12 Parker Bentley
Pitt-Johnstown
125 – #1 Trevon Gray / Pepper Martin
133 – #15 Tyson Cook / Brady Baker
141 – Chad Ozias / Gideon Bracken
149 – #9 Matt Sarbo
157 – #15 Cooper Warshel
165 – Gavyn Beck
174 – Trent Hoover
184 – #6 Noah Gnibus
197 – Bradley Morrison
285 – #1 Isaiah Vance
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy Alumni Night festivities and be part of one of the premier dual atmospheres in Division II wrestling.
