Nebraska's Brock Hardy faces Ohio State's Jesse Mendez in Big Ten finals rematch

Hardy looks to avenge three straight losses to the two-time NCAA champion Mendez

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Brock Hardy of Nebraska will take on Jesse Mendez of Ohio State in the Big Ten wrestling finals on Sunday. Hardy, a three-time All-American, is seeking his first win over Mendez, the two-time NCAA champion, after losing to him three times in a row, including in last year's NCAA finals. Hardy says he'll need to bring his "best product" to have a chance at beating the undefeated Hodge Trophy contender Mendez.

Why it matters

This matchup features two of the top wrestlers in the country, with Mendez being the heavy favorite. Hardy is looking to finally get over the hump and defeat his rival Mendez, which would be a huge boost of confidence heading into the NCAA Championships in two weeks.

The details

Hardy reached the Big Ten finals by defeating Minnesota's Vance Vombaur 9-2 in the semifinals. He has now beaten Vombaur five times in his career. In the finals, Hardy will face Mendez, who he has lost to three times in a row, including a 12-9 defeat in last year's NCAA finals. Hardy's only win over Mendez came in the 2025 Big Ten semifinals.

  • The Big Ten finals will take place on Sunday, March 9, 2026.
  • Hardy and Mendez previously met in the 2025 NCAA finals, where Mendez won 12-9.

The players

Brock Hardy

A three-time All-American wrestler for the University of Nebraska, Hardy is looking to avenge his three straight losses to Mendez and capture his first Big Ten title.

Jesse Mendez

The two-time NCAA champion from Ohio State University, Mendez is the heavy favorite heading into the Big Ten finals matchup with Hardy. He is a Hodge Trophy contender this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's gonna take everything. I gotta beat the best in the world, Jesse Mendez.”

— Brock Hardy, Nebraska wrestler (BTN broadcast)

What’s next

The winner of the Big Ten finals matchup between Hardy and Mendez will head to the NCAA Championships in Cleveland in two weeks, where they will look to capture a national title.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated rematch between two of the top wrestlers in the country will be a true test for Hardy, who is seeking his first victory over the dominant Mendez. The outcome could have major implications for both wrestlers' NCAA title aspirations.