UNI wrestling falls at Oklahoma, 23-18

Panthers come up short against Sooners in Norman. UNI visits South Dakota State next weekend.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:47am

The 13th ranked UNI wrestling team battled through early injury and a handful of hotly contested matches, but ultimately came up short on Saturday night in a 23-18 dual loss at No. 21 Oklahoma. Despite having a chance to win the dual late in the final match of the night, the loss snaps the Panthers' eight dual winning streak against the Sooners.

Why it matters

This loss is a setback for the UNI wrestling team, which was looking to bounce back after a difficult showing at No. 5 Oklahoma State on Friday night. The dual against Oklahoma was an important test for the Panthers as they prepare for their upcoming match against No. 15 South Dakota State.

The details

UNI picked up four victories, including a pin at 133 pounds by Julian Farber. However, the Panthers were unable to overcome early injury and several close losses, including a 4-1 defeat for Max Brady at 141 pounds and a narrow 2-1 loss for Jared Simma at 174 pounds against a top-8 opponent. The dual came down to the final match at heavyweight, where Adam Ahrendsen was unable to overcome No. 21 Juan Mora, falling 16-4.

  • The dual took place on Saturday night, February 1, 2026.
  • UNI will visit No. 15 South Dakota State on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The players

UNI

The 13th ranked University of Northern Iowa wrestling team.

Oklahoma

The No. 21 ranked Oklahoma Sooners wrestling team.

Julian Farber

A UNI wrestler who recorded a pin at 133 pounds.

Jared Simma

A UNI wrestler who lost a close 2-1 decision at 174 pounds against a top-8 opponent.

Adam Ahrendsen

A UNI wrestler who fell 16-4 in the final match of the dual at heavyweight.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

UNI will visit No. 15 South Dakota State on Sunday, February 8, 2026 as they look to get back on track.

The takeaway

The close losses and early injury for UNI highlight the competitive nature of college wrestling and the importance of depth and resilience for teams looking to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.