With the release of MatScouts’ 2025–26 Junior High Rankings, Missouri athletes once again placed themselves among the nation’s best, earning top TEN spots across multiple weight classes, including a No. 1 ranking at 120 pounds.
The rankings reflect sustained performance against elite competition and reinforce Missouri’s growing national footprint at the junior high level.
Individual Athlete Spotlights
Billy Roberts – #2 at 70 lbs
Roberts continues to establish himself as one of the most reliable competitors in the country at 70 pounds. His No. 2 ranking reflects consistency across major events and the ability to separate from the field in a deep weight class.
Quentin Neal – #6 at 75 lbs
Neal’s placement inside the top six comes from repeatedly testing himself in high-level environments. His ranking reflects competitive depth, composure in close matches, and results that hold up nationally, no matter the stage.
Chasen Burke – #9 at 75 lbs
Burke cracks the top 10 after moving up a division from 70 to 75 pounds. His ranking speaks to toughness, continued development, and a willingness to take on elite-level competition throughout the season.
Jacob Saunders – #1 at 120 lbs
Saunders sits atop the national rankings at 120 pounds, a position earned through consistency, control, and results against elite opponents. The No. 1 ranking reflects not just peak performance, but sustained excellence highlighted by his performance at Super 32.
Rocky Thompson – #9 at 120 lbs
Thompson joins Saunders in the top 10 at 120 pounds, giving Missouri two nationally ranked wrestlers in one of the most competitive weight classes. His ranking highlights resilience, growth, and high-level performances.
Talon Worden – #2 at Heavyweight
Worden’s No. 2 ranking at heavyweight underscores Missouri’s strength across all divisions. His ability to manage matches, dictate pace, and compete at a high level has made him a consistent national contender. Worden continues to seek improvement, and a potential clash with the No. 1-ranked heavyweight will be one to watch as he looks for redemption.
What Do MatScouts Rankings Measure? (For Parents)
MatScouts rankings are results-based and opponent-driven. They are not predictions or popularity lists.
At a high level, rankings consider:
- Performance at major tournaments
- Quality of opponents faced
- Consistency over time
- Head-to-head results against other ranked wrestlers
Rankings reward athletes who seek out tough competition and perform when it matters most. They can change throughout the season as new results are earned.
In short: rankings reflect who has proven themselves so far — not who might be good later.
Final Thoughts
These rankings don’t guarantee postseason results, but they do show who has already done the work. As the 2025–26 season continues, Missouri’s junior high wrestlers are positioned not just to compete, but to challenge nationally.
What happens next will matter more than where anyone starts.
If the past few years are any indication, Missouri wrestlers will continue to seek out tough competition, embrace the grind, and let their performances speak for themselves.
