Rutgers' Dean Peterson reaches NCAA quarterfinals after upset

Dean Peterson achieved a major victory at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships on Thursday night. Competing in Philadelphia, the Rutgers wrestler pinned Arizona State’s defending champion, Richie Figueroa, in a thrilling match. Peterson, who entered the tournament as a 12th seed, showcased his determination and skill. He initially fell behind 3-1 after the first period but made a comeback. With 31 seconds left in the second period, he scored a takedown to tie the match. The final moments were intense, leading to Peterson's successful pin at 5:42. After the match, Peterson expressed confidence in his abilities. "I’m the better wrestler," he stated. He felt the victory was expected, despite being an upset based on seeding. This win marks the first time he has advanced to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Championships. Peterson will face Vincent Robinson from NC State in the next round. They previously met in November, but Peterson is eager to show how far he has come since then. This performance comes after a challenging season, where he managed an LCL injury leading to a sixth place finish at the Big Ten Tournament. Peterson remains focused on his goal. "I’ve got three more to get," he said, highlighting his desire to continue winning in the tournament. He believes in his abilities and is ready for the upcoming matches.