Serrano Goes 5–0 to Lead Bears at Southern Scuffle

Sunday, January 4

Chattanooga, Tenn.

TBD

University of Northern Colorado

UT Chattanooga

UNC Athletics

1/4/2026 4:06:00 PM | Wrestling

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Northern Colorado wrapped up day two of the Southern Scuffle with momentum, grit, and statement performances against a deep field of national competition. As a team, the Bears finished 16th.

Leading the charge was Dominick Serrano, who delivered a flawless tournament at 133 pounds, going a perfect 5–0 and finishing atop the podium. His dominant performance earned him Most Outstanding Wrestler honors for the tournament.

Serrano's run was highlighted by a thrilling semifinal victory over Max Leete of American, where he earned an 8–5 decision in sudden-victory overtime to punch his ticket to the finals.

That momentum carried into the championship bout, where Serrano defeated Braxton Brown of Maryland to claim the title, capping off an impressive tournament run and underscoring his ability to win close, high-pressure matches.

Northern Colorado also saw tough efforts in the consolation rounds, as Mahonri Rushton competed hard before falling in a tight 4–2 decision to Cornell's Christian Hansen in the consolation of eight.

Overall, it was a great tournament for the Bears, marked by big wins over strong opponents and strong performances throughout the lineup. Competing against some of the nation's top programs, Northern Colorado showed resilience, depth, and the ability to rise in key moments.

UP NEXT: The Bears will return to Bank of Colorado Arena on Sunday, January 11 when they host No. 19 Penn. The dual is set to start at 2 p.m. MT.

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