Rutgers Wrestling Star Returns After Two-Month Absence

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Joey Olivieri, an eighth-ranked 141-pound wrestler for Rutgers University, made a triumphant return to the team after a two-month absence due to a violation of team rules. Olivieri's dominant 19-2 technical fall over Princeton's Matthew Martino was a pivotal moment for the Scarlet Knights, as they look to make a deep postseason run. Olivieri is part of a strong senior class that also includes All-American Dylan Shawver and Andy Clark, whose contributions were crucial in Rutgers' 28-9 victory over Princeton.

Why it matters

Olivieri's return is a significant boost for Rutgers' postseason aspirations. As an All-American hopeful, his performance will be critical in the upcoming championships. Rutgers' overall depth and balanced attack have positioned them as a legitimate contender in the Big Ten and on the national stage.

The details

After a perfect 10-0 start to the season, Olivieri was benched in mid-December due to a 'violation of team rules.' Despite being cleared to return in January, he remained sidelined, leaving coach Scott Goodale to lament the team was 'missing its horse.' Olivieri's return to competition at the Bloomsburg Open, where he went 4-0, was a promising sign, and his dominant performance against Princeton confirmed he's back to his best.

• Olivieri was benched in mid-December due to a team rules violation.
• Olivieri was cleared to return for the Michigan dual in January but remained sidelined.
• Olivieri returned to competition at the Bloomsburg Open in February, going 4-0.
• Olivieri's dominant 19-2 technical fall over Princeton's Matthew Martino came on February 17, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Rutgers will continue their dual meet season at Hofstra before focusing on the postseason.