South Davidson HS Wrestler Chases 4th State Title

Cael Dunn aims to become one of only 16 North Carolina wrestlers to sweep 4 state championships.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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South Davidson High School senior wrestler Cael Dunn has an impressive 217-1 all-time record, making him one of the best wrestlers in North Carolina. With a win at this weekend's NCHSAA State Championships, Dunn will become only one of 16 wrestlers in state history to sweep four state titles in four years.

Why it matters

Winning four consecutive state championships is an extremely rare feat, showcasing Dunn's exceptional talent and dedication to the sport of wrestling. His potential historic achievement would cement his legacy as one of the all-time great high school wrestlers in North Carolina.

The details

Dunn, who has been dreaming of this accomplishment since sixth grade, says the hard work and sacrifice required to reach this point makes the potential reward that much sweeter. With a 217-1 career record, Dunn has dominated his competition throughout his high school career.

  • Dunn will compete at the NCHSAA State Championships this weekend (February 19-21, 2026).
  • Dunn has won three previous state titles in his freshman, sophomore, and junior seasons.

The players

Cael Dunn

A senior wrestler at South Davidson High School in North Carolina who has an all-time record of 217-1 and is seeking his fourth consecutive state championship.

South Davidson High School

The high school that Cael Dunn attends and represents as a wrestler.

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What they’re saying

“It's tough, that makes it so much more rewarding. Every bit of blood and sweat that goes into it, it feels so good when you get to hold a medal in your hands, or win a big tournament and get your hand raised at the end, it's just worth it at the end of the day.”

— Cael Dunn (myfox8.com)

“Finishing off with a fourth state title would be awesome. That's been the dream since I was in sixth grade. I want to be on top of that podium. Being able to finish out strong would be awesome. It'd be just a great blessing for me.”

— Cael Dunn (myfox8.com)

What’s next

Dunn will compete at the NCHSAA State Championships this weekend, where he will attempt to become one of only 16 wrestlers in North Carolina history to win four consecutive state titles.

The takeaway

Cael Dunn's potential historic achievement of winning four straight state wrestling championships would cement his legacy as one of the all-time great high school wrestlers in North Carolina, showcasing his exceptional talent, dedication, and drive to reach the pinnacle of his sport.