UNI Wrestling Rallies for Senior Day Win Over Wisconsin

Panther comeback led by Maximus Brady's major decision victory

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) wrestling team secured a narrow 16-15 victory over No. 16 Wisconsin on Sunday, February 23, 2026, at the McLeod Center. The match, which saw UNI rally after falling into an early deficit, also served as Senior Day for eight Panther wrestlers.

Why it matters

UNI's ability to overcome an early deficit against a ranked opponent demonstrates the program's growing strength within the Big 12 Conference. The team's resilience and competitive spirit, led by standout wrestler Maximus Brady, highlight the impact of the senior leadership on the squad.

The details

After Wisconsin took an early 12-0 lead by winning the first four matches, UNI responded with a series of crucial victories. The turning point came at 141 pounds, where Maximus Brady delivered a dominant 17-4 major decision over Peter Tomazevic, igniting the Panther comeback. Caleb Rathjen, Jack Thomsen, Jared Simma, and Nick Fox also secured key wins to seal the victory for UNI.

  • The match took place on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
  • Prior to the dual, UNI honored its senior class on Senior Day.

The players

Maximus Brady

A UNI wrestler competing at 141 pounds and a four-time Florida state champion.

Jack Thomsen

One of the eight UNI seniors honored on Senior Day.

UNI Wrestling

The University of Northern Iowa wrestling team, which secured a 16-15 victory over Wisconsin on Senior Day.

Wisconsin

The No. 16 ranked wrestling team that faced off against UNI.

Nick Fox

The UNI wrestler who clinched the team win with a 3-1 decision at 184 pounds.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

UNI will now turn their attention to the Big 12 Championships, scheduled for March 6-7 at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The takeaway

UNI's victory over Wisconsin on Senior Day showcases the program's growing strength within the Big 12 Conference, with the team's resilience and competitive spirit led by standout performers like Maximus Brady. The contributions of the graduating senior class have been instrumental in shaping the team's culture and fostering a winning mentality.