Central's Flores Reaches North Dakota State Title Match

Wrestler ranked 5th in 127-pound class advances to championship bout

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Grand Forks Central's Gabe Flores III, ranked No. 5 in his 127-pound weight class, has advanced to the championship match at the North Dakota state wrestling tournament. Flores beat the No. 1-ranked wrestler in his class, Bismarck Legacy's Nick, to earn a spot in the title bout on Friday.

Why it matters

Flores' unexpected run to the state championship match as a lower-ranked wrestler is an inspiring underdog story that showcases the unpredictable nature of high school sports competitions. His success also highlights the strength of the wrestling program at Grand Forks Central High School.

The details

Flores, who was seeded fifth in his weight class, pulled off a surprising upset over the top-ranked wrestler, Nick from Bismarck Legacy, to earn a spot in the state title match. This wild development has set the stage for an exciting championship showdown on Friday.

  • The North Dakota state wrestling tournament is taking place this week.
  • Flores will compete in the 127-pound championship match on Friday.

The players

Gabe Flores III

A wrestler for Grand Forks Central High School who is ranked 5th in the 127-pound weight class.

Nick

A wrestler for Bismarck Legacy High School who was ranked No. 1 in the 127-pound weight class but was upset by Flores.

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What’s next

Flores will compete in the 127-pound state championship match on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Flores' unexpected run to the state title match as a lower-ranked wrestler demonstrates the unpredictability and excitement of high school sports competitions, where underdogs can rise to the occasion and pull off surprising upsets.