James Hackney
Watch Live: UFC Fight Pass, December 21st 7PM CT
The Tigers are hosting Illinois in a unique dual, competing at the Stifel Theater in St. Louis on a UFC Fight Pass stream. The dual is taking place the day before the Border Brawl basketball game against Illinois. The Fighting Illini aren’t having their best year, with a number of their returning qualifiers in redshirt. They have some strong true freshmen that could play a role in the dual as well. The Tigers had some injuries in the last dual, something that could change the lineup on their end. Without an official word I’ll write as if they’re in, but time will tell who actually lines up. The rankings are likely to change, but were delayed with Collegiate Duals.
125lbs: #12 Noah Surtin (8-0) vs Justin Cardani (2-3)
A match between two experienced wrestlers here, as Cardani is in his sixth year and a two-time qualifier. He’s got good wins historically, but is on a tough three match losing streak to ranked wrestlers. While Cardani has the ability to keep this match close and make things interesting, I’m taking Surtin by major. His offense has been on another level, and he’s built to perform on the stage.
Prediction: Surtin Maj. Cardani (MIZ 4 ILL 0)
133lbs: Kade Moore (6-2) vs #28 Anthony Madrigal (1-1)
A potential big opportunity for Moore here, as I expect him to get another start. Madrigal was a three-time qualifier for the Sooners, but hit the portal after an injured season last year. He’s a former Big 12 finalist, and is great from top. He hasn’t wrestled too much this season, but the Illini are going to need him to have a chance in the dual. Madrigal is someone who I think could end up in the top 16 or higher by year’s end, so this is a tough match. I’ll take Moore wrestling tough, but Madrigal’s top work being the difference against the young redshirt freshman…
