WACO Wrestler Falls Short in State Finals Again

Ian Maize loses to same opponent for second straight year

Feb. 24, 2026 at 4:26am

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WACO High School sophomore Ian Maize has reached the state wrestling finals two years in a row, but has fallen short of the championship both times, losing to the same opponent.

Why it matters

Reaching the state finals is an impressive accomplishment for any high school wrestler, and Maize's back-to-back appearances demonstrate his skill and determination. However, the repeat loss to the same competitor raises questions about Maize's ability to overcome this particular challenge.

The details

Maize lost to his opponent, Belinsky, in the state finals match. This marks the second consecutive year that Maize has fallen short against Belinsky in the championship bout.

  • Maize reached the state finals in 2025 and 2026.

The players

Ian Maize

A sophomore wrestler at WACO High School who has reached the state finals two years in a row.

Belinsky

Maize's opponent in the state finals match, who has defeated him the past two years.

WACO High School

The school that Ian Maize represents.

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What they’re saying

“I have no excuses. I don't have much to say.”

— Ian Maize, Wrestler

The takeaway

Maize's back-to-back appearances in the state finals demonstrate his wrestling prowess, but his inability to overcome the same opponent two years in a row suggests he has more work to do to claim the championship title.