IN! 12-Year-Old Wrestling Prodigy from Wisconsin Crowned National Champion
In a story that’s capturing the attention of the wrestling world and inspiring young athletes nationwide, a 12-year-old wrestler from Wisconsin has achieved what many spend a lifetime chasing: a national championship title.
The young phenom, Mason Riley, etched his name into the history books by dominating his weight class at the USA Wrestling Kids Nationals this past weekend. Held in Des Moines, Iowa, the prestigious tournament brought together the country’s most elite youth wrestlers—but it was the Wisconsin native who stole the spotlight.
Riley, representing a local wrestling club in Madison, powered through the competition with unmatched determination, technical precision, and composure well beyond his years. With a perfect 5-0 record and three wins by pin, he emerged victorious in the 85-pound division—earning him the title of national champion and solidifying his status as one of the brightest young talents in American wrestling.
“It feels amazing,” Riley said moments after his win, still clutching his medal with a mix of disbelief and pride. “I’ve worked really hard for this. I train six days a week, and I’ve dreamed about being a national champion since I was little. I just didn’t think it would happen this soon.”
Riley’s coach, former collegiate wrestler Brandon Torres, praised his star pupil’s dedication. “Mason is special,” Torres said. “He’s got talent, no doubt, but it’s his work ethic that sets him apart. He studies film, he drills non-stop, and he never backs down from a challenge. This is only the beginning for him.”
What makes Riley’s achievement even more remarkable is that he’s not just a standout on the mat—he’s also a straight-A student and active in his local community. His parents, both lifelong Wisconsin residents, say they’re proud of the balance he maintains between school, sports, and family life.
“We’re just trying to keep him grounded,” his mother, Angela Riley, said. “He’s a kid, and we want him to enjoy this moment. But we also remind him that hard work and humility are what got him here—and they’ll be what carry him forward.”
The wrestling community across Wisconsin is already buzzing with excitement about what’s next for Riley. With a national title now under his belt, opportunities for advanced training, national camps, and sponsorships are likely to follow. He’s expected to compete in several elite-level tournaments throughout the summer, as scouts and coaches continue to take notice.
More than just a win, Riley’s triumph represents the potential of youth wrestling in Wisconsin—a state that has long produced gritty, technically sound athletes. His story serves as motivation for other young wrestlers dreaming of national glory.
As the dust settles on an unforgettable weekend in Iowa, one thing is clear: Mason Riley has arrived, and the wrestling world will be watching his next move closely.
