Nutley Wrestler Cifelli Reaches 100-Win Milestone

Christopher Cifelli becomes first Maroon Raider to reach 100 career wins since 2018.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Christopher Cifelli, a senior wrestler at Nutley High School, recently achieved a major milestone by recording his 100th career win. Cifelli reached the prestigious 100-win club on Senior Night, defeating Irvington's Eric Estrada by technical fall. He is the first Maroon Raider wrestler to reach 100 wins since current assistant coach Frank DeMaio in 2018.

Why it matters

Reaching 100 career wins is an exceptional accomplishment in high school wrestling, as the sport takes a significant physical and mental toll on athletes. Cifelli's achievement is a testament to his dedication, skill, and perseverance over his four-year varsity career. This milestone also highlights the strength of Nutley's wrestling program and its ability to develop elite-level talent.

The details

Cifelli, wrestling at 138 pounds this season, has had an impressive campaign, claiming second place at the Essex County Tournament and winning matches at the TCNJ Pride and Sam Cali Battle for the Belt Tournaments. After returning from a shoulder injury that sidelined him in early February, Cifelli has won nine consecutive matches and is poised to make a run at the state championships in Atlantic City.

  • On February 12, 2026, Cifelli recorded his 100th career win on Senior Night.
  • Cifelli is heading into the District 10 Tournament on a nine-match winning streak.

The players

Christopher Cifelli

A senior wrestler at Nutley High School who recently achieved his 100th career win, becoming the first Maroon Raider to reach the milestone since 2018.

Frank DeMaio

A current assistant coach at Nutley High School who previously reached the 100-win milestone as a wrestler for the Maroon Raiders in 2018.

Mike DiPiano

The head wrestling coach at Nutley High School, who has seen Cifelli's potential since his time in the town's recreation program.

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What they’re saying

“It felt amazing. It was unbelievable, especially getting on senior night in the last home dual.”

— Christopher Cifelli (theobserver.com)

“To get it at home in front of the fans was special. He'll get to remember that for the rest of his life.”

— Mike DiPiano, Head Coach (theobserver.com)

“I told him since freshman year that I was going to be on that wall next right after him. And soon enough, I did it.”

— Christopher Cifelli (theobserver.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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