Get ready, wrestling fans—Final X is almost here, and the heat is already rising! Set for June 14, 2025, at Newark’s Prudential Center, this event will see America’s finest go head-to-head in a thrilling best-of-three format across 20 weight classes. But one name is already turning heads: Spencer Lee. With his most recent gold medal victory at the Zagreb Open earlier this year, Lee, a two-time Dan Hodge Trophy winner, three-time Big Ten Champion, and silver medalist at the Paris Olympics, has the odds in his favor. Lee is more prepared than ever for the big event, even though his opponent for the Final X has not yet been revealed. Lee accepted his spot at 57kg in freestyle just two weeks ago.
The Iowa Hawkeyes legend isn’t just a wrestler—he’s a wrestling brand. With three NCAA titles and a reputation for relentless domination on the mat, Spencer Lee is positioning himself as America’s next great hope for World Championship gold. Let’s rewind the life of our favorite Spencer Lee.
Early life of American wrestling star Spencer Lee
Born on October 14, 1998, in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, Spencer’s journey began under the guidance of his father, a former judo national champion. It didn’t take long before he made his own name known, dominating in youth competitions and clinching three age-group world titles.
By the time he was wrestling for Franklin Regional High School, Lee was a certified phenom. He compiled an eye-popping 144-1 record—his only loss coming in the final match of his senior year, while wrestling with torn ACLs in both knees. That grit would go on to define his entire career.
At the University of Iowa, he continued his reign of dominance, capturing three NCAA titles at 125 lbs and earning a reputation for technical mastery and early-match takedowns. Injuries tried to slow him down, but Lee wasn’t having it. Even while battling torn ligaments, he kept racking up wins and titles. That toughness? Legendary. Spencer Lee’s tenure with the University of Iowa (2017–2023) is one for the history books.
Paris 2024 Olympics – Wrestling – Men’s Freestyle 57kg Victory Ceremony – Champ-de-Mars Arena, Paris, France – August 09, 2024. Silver medallist Spencer Richard Lee of United States poses with his medal. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon
The wrestling prodigy won three NCAA championships (2018, 2019, 2021) at 125 pounds and was awarded the prestigious Dan Hodge Trophy—wrestling’s equivalent of the Heisman—twice. Even more impressive? In 2021, he won a national title while competing with no ACLs. In a post-match interview, he casually said, “Excuses are for wusses.” That quote went viral, summing up who Spencer Lee really is.
Why Spencer Lee might just be the next big thing
Lee’s technique, speed, and mental toughness make him one of the most dangerous athletes in the lighter weight classes. But it’s not just about skills—it’s about story. He’s battled through pain, setbacks, surgeries, and doubt. And he keeps coming back stronger.
What sets him apart isn’t just talent—it’s resilience. With the likes of Gable Steveson and David Taylor shifting toward part-time appearances, the U.S. needs new icons. Spencer Lee could be that next name etched in gold. What’s next?
The 2025 World Championships and U.S. Open are the next major milestones. Training out of the Hawkeye Wrestling Club, Lee continues to refine his craft. Spencer Lee is going for Final X—USA Wrestling’s selection event for the World Championships.
And beyond that? The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics loom large—a stage where Spencer Lee could rewrite his story, this time with Olympic gold in sight. Spencer Lee’s journey is far from over. From high school prodigy to NCAA legend and now international contender, he’s proof that wrestling greatness isn’t given—it’s earned. In a sport defined by perseverance, Spencer Lee isn’t just surviving. He’s thriving. And for Team USA, that might just be the best news yet.
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