Penn State Wrestler Penalized After Post-Match Scuffle

Braeden Davis loses point for retaliatory kick against Nebraska's Brock Hardy

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:47pm

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In a dual meet between Penn State and Nebraska wrestling, Nebraska's Brock Hardy, ranked No. 4 at 133 pounds, pinned Penn State's Braeden Davis, ranked No. 12. After the pin, Hardy appeared to slap Davis twice in the chest, prompting Davis to retaliate with a kick. The kick resulted in Penn State losing a team point, bringing the final score to 7-6 in favor of Penn State.

Why it matters

Sportsmanship and avoiding unsportsmanlike conduct is an important part of collegiate wrestling. This incident highlights the intense emotions and rivalries that can boil over during high-stakes matches, and how they can impact the outcome of a dual meet.

The details

After pinning Davis, Hardy appeared to slap him twice in the chest. Davis then retaliated by kicking Hardy, which resulted in Penn State losing a team point. This brought the final score to 7-6 in Penn State's favor. The incident occurred in the third period of the 133-pound match.

  • The incident happened on Friday, January 31, 2026 during a dual meet between Penn State and Nebraska.

The players

Brock Hardy

A Nebraska wrestler ranked No. 4 at 133 pounds who pinned his Penn State opponent.

Braeden Davis

A Penn State wrestler ranked No. 12 at 133 pounds who was pinned by Hardy, and then retaliated by kicking him.

Nasir Bailey

An Iowa wrestler ranked No. 11 who defeated Davis 3-2 two weeks prior.

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What they’re saying

“Another look at the scuffle between Braeden Davis and Brock Hardy. Hardy gives Davis two slaps on the chest after the fall, Davis retaliates with a kick. Penn State lost a dual point as a result.”

— Basic Blues Nation

What’s next

The Penn State coaching staff will likely review the incident with Davis and address the importance of maintaining composure, even in the heat of competition.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder that sportsmanship and self-control are crucial in collegiate wrestling, where emotions can run high. While Davis was defending himself, the retaliatory kick ultimately cost his team a point, highlighting the need for wrestlers to rise above provocation and focus on the competition.