Former Missouri wrestler Rocky Elam has announced his decision to transfer to Iowa State University for his final year of eligibility on BASCHAMANIA: The Podcast. The four-time All-American entered the transfer portal recently after medically redshirting last season due to injuries.
Elam, who has battled through multiple serious injuries including a torn labrum and meniscus that affected his performance at the 2024 NCAA Championships, chose the Cyclones after carefully weighing his options. While recovering from surgeries and rehabilitation throughout the past year, Elam maintained his passion for wrestling despite the physical challenges.
“I still have that love and that passion for wrestling more than I’ve ever had,” Elam shared during his announcement. “The Lord’s put a great love in my heart for wrestling.”
In explaining his decision to transfer to Iowa State, Elam emphasized several factors beyond NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities. While acknowledging that financial considerations played a role, he stressed that his primary concerns were finding a program that could accommodate his training needs given his injury history.
“If I didn’t have my needs met as an athlete at whatever university I was looking at, no dollar amount could have made me go there,” Elam stated.
The Iowa State coaching staff, led by Kevin Dresser, impressed Elam with their willingness to collaborate on a flexible training and competition schedule that would prepare him for nationals while managing his physical condition. The program’s impressive coaching roster, including Brent Metcalf, Derek St. John, along with RTC resources, convinced Elam that this was the right move.
Training partners also factored heavily into his decision. Elam mentioned working out with David Carr and Yonger Bastida, noting his respect for Bastida after their previous collegiate matchups. The presence of these high-level training partners, along with a strong faith community including Carr, aligned with Elam’s priorities.
Looking beyond his final collegiate season, Elam revealed plans to potentially continue wrestling internationally. He mentioned pursuing Italian citizenship through his mother’s heritage, which would allow him to represent Italy in international competition with an eye toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
While excited about his new opportunity with the Cyclones, Elam expressed sincere appreciation for his time at Missouri. The Kansas City native described leaving his home state program as emotional but necessary for his athletic development.
“It felt like leaving Mizzou almost felt like a breakup,” Elam reflected. “It’s one of those things that’s super sad, and I shed some tears for sure, but at the same time you just feel like you have faith that this next opportunity is a good one.”
Elam intends to complete his graduate studies at Iowa State while focusing on returning to full health for the upcoming wrestling season.
