Bo Bassett is a force to be reckoned with on the mat. As the undisputed No. 1 recruit in the NCAA class of 2026, he has dominated high school wrestling with a near-flawless record, proving why top programs like Penn State, Oklahoma State, and Virginia Tech were vying for his commitment. And ultimately the standout from Bishop McCort High School chose the University of Iowa.
Bassett isn’t slowing down. His focus remains on continuous growth and making a statement at the collegiate level. But while his accolades speak volumes, there’s more to Bo Bassett than just wrestling. Beyond the fierce competitor fans see on the mat, there’s a young man with a life off it.
Recently, Bo Bassett gave a glimpse into his life beyond wrestling with a heartfelt Instagram post dedicated to his girlfriend, Ayda Dorian. Captioned “365 Days of Loving You,“ the post was more than just an anniversary celebration. It was a reminder that even the toughest competitors have a soft side, and for Bassett, love and support off the mat are just as meaningful as victories on it. “In wrestling, family support is my greatest strength,” Bassett once said. Wrestling runs deep in the Bassett family, and moreover, his grandfather, Bill Bassett, played a pivotal role in inspiring his early passion for the sport. And adding to this support is none other than his girlfriend, Ayda Dorian.
While the entire wrestling community is used to seeing Bo Bassett’s intensity on the mat, his softer side was on full display this Valentine’s Day. But was he celebrating the holiday like any other 17-year-old? Not exactly. On February 14, Bassett took to Instagram with a heartfelt collage.His caption? “Happy Valentine’s Day ” with a sweet “I love you always and forever.” But this wasn’t a one-sided love fest. Ayda joined in too, sharing her own Instagram story, adding to the couple’s growing archive of heartwarming moments. Their relationship, which appears to have started in June 2024, has been a source of joy for both.
Fans couldn’t get enough of this side of Bassett, flooding the comments with love and admiration.
Bo Bassett’s love off the mat wins fans over
Being a dominating force on the competition is a regular sight for fans when it comes to Bo Bassett. The sight of Bo Bassett being his boyfriend self had become a favorite subject for fans. The side of Bo Bassett that his fans witness in romance excites them more than anything they have seen before. “On and off the mat, he stays winning,” one fan commented, perfectly summing up the sentiment. Bassett is currently a three-time Super 32 winner, a three-time Ironman Wrestling Tournament winner, and a three-time Powerade Wrestling Tournament winner. What an athlete at such a young age!
Many were just thrilled to see a different side of him. “Love this for two reasons!!! First, seeing you in non-wrestling gear lol, and second, @bo.bassett is NOT a machine lol. Much love to you and the family, Bo!!!” another fan wrote, appreciating the rare glimpse into his life beyond the sport. Wrestling fans have seen Bassett demonstrate an unceasing dedication to his sport. This resulted in his U-17 World Championship and his U-20 silver medal win. The intense moments showcase to fans that past the extreme dedication toward wrestling exists an 17-year-old who leads a lifestyle away from competition.
Others couldn’t help but admire his relationship. “Seriously the cutest couple,” one fan said. While another joked, “Ayy W Bo, but I think she could take you down .” And for those still searching for their own love story? “Need to find someone like this,” one fan sighed. Bo may be building a legendary career in wrestling, but moments like these prove he’s winning in more ways than one.
The way Bo Bassett shows strong dedication in wrestling and a friendly spirit in daily life proves he understands how to manage both aspects of life. This has left everyone wondering about how his Iowa wrestling experience will form both the wrestler and the person beyond the mat. Let us know in the comments what do you think?
The post Bo Bassett’s Humane Side Stuns Wrestling Fans as 17-Year-Old Enjoys Romantic Break With Girlfriend appeared first on EssentiallySports.
