Bristol, Tenn. – King University men's wrestling made a powerful statement at the 2025 King Open, dominating the home mats with three individual champions and three runner-up finishes. The Tornado showcased depth, technique, and grit across multiple weight classes, setting the tone for a promising season ahead.
Champions
Joe Bertrand (157 lbs)
Bertrand cruised to the title with two technical falls and a decision victory, showing sharp offense and control throughout the bracket.
Clint Morrisette (174 lbs)
Clint was unstoppable, earning a tech fall, a major decision, and a dominant 17–2 win over Waylon Holt in the finals. He also advanced past one round via forfeit.
Luke Justice (184 lbs)
Justice tore through his bracket with four wins — three by technical fall and one by major decision — to claim the top spot at 184.
Runner-Up Finishers
David Bertrand (197 lbs)
Bertrand battled through a tough bracket to reach the finals, finishing second and continuing to build momentum early in the season.
Josef Pociask (184 lbs)
Pociask joined Justice in the 184-pound final, giving King a 1–2 finish in the weight class and highlighting the team's strength in the middle weights.
Gilbert Balbuena (133 lbs)
Balbuena impressed with a runner-up finish at 133, showcasing poise and potential as a freshman.
Tornado Momentum
With six finalists and three champions, King Wrestling proved its depth and readiness at the King Open. From seasoned veterans like Morrisette to rising stars like Bertrand and Balbuena, the Tornado roster is loaded with talent and hungry for more.
Looking Ahead
With three champions and six total finalists, the Tornado made a powerful statement at their home invitational. The mix of veteran leadership and young talent bodes well for the rest of the season as King prepares for dual meets and conference competition.
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