Sports News Report
League: WWESport: WrestlingCountry: United StatesCategory: Breaking News

Kennedy Blades forgoes final year with Iowa women's wrestling team

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 7, 2026, 1:05 AM

Last updated Jun 7, 2026

Kennedy Blades forgoes final year with Iowa women's wrestling team
Summary

Kennedy Blades, a national champion from the Iowa women's wrestling program, announced she will not return for her final season. Blades, who holds a perfect record of 19-0 in her senior year, will pursue a full-time career in wrestling with Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling promotion founded by Hulk Hogan. Despite exiting college wrestling, she plans to stay in Iowa City for Olympic training, targeting the 2028 Games as her next competitive goal.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Blades announced her decision on Instagram on June 5, 2026.
  • •She had a perfect senior season, finishing 19-0 and winning an NCAA title.
  • •Real American Freestyle allows wrestlers to compete professionally.
  • •Blades will remain in Iowa City to prepare for the Olympics.
  • •Iowa must replace one of its top wrestlers next season.
Latest Updates
  • 1:05 AMYahoo Sports — Iowa women's wrestling national champion to forgo final year
What they're saying
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One of the best wrestlers in the short history of Iowa's program will not be using her final year of eligibility.

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