Former Nebraska heavyweight All-American AJ Ferrari launched a statement after entering the NCAA transfer portal. It was revealed over the weekend that the 2021 NCAA champion would not return to the Huskers for the 2026-27 season.
Ferrari, who’s wrestled for Oklahoma State, Cal State Bakersfield and Nebraska, will seek for a brand new dwelling subsequent season. As of now, Husker Online reported he wants a waiver from the NCAA to be able to be granted another yr of eligibility.
Ferrari himself maintained he can have one, maybe two, extra seasons to wrestle. There’s been no indication as to the place he’ll go but, however he’s “open” to all alternatives that come his means.
“Grateful for my time at Nebraska and everyone who’s supported me,” Ferrari wrote on Twitter/X. “Giving all glory to Yahuah for guiding my journey. Entering the transfer portal. Focused, hungry, and ready for what’s next. 1–2 years of eligibility left. Open to all opportunities.”
Ferrari is a three-time All-American and 2021 NCAA champion. He received the title at 197 kilos at Oklahoma State and completed third at that weight final yr for Cal State Bakersfield. As he’s detailed, accidents slowed him down on the NCAA Tournament this yr and he in the end wrestled his final match of the season towards Iowa State’s Yonger Bastida, a loss.
Ferrari holds a 68-7 profession document, which started through the shortened 2021 season at Oklahoma State. During that free yr, Ferrari arrived onto the scene with a nationwide title however his sophomore season was reduce quick as a consequence of a automobile accident and subsequent dismissal from the workforce.
Ferrari didn’t wrestle for any college in 2023 and ’24, though was linked to Iowa earlier than returning to varsity wrestling in 2025. When Iowa didn’t work out, he wrestled for Cal State Bakersfield, ending third on the NCAA Tournament.
Originally, Ferrari dedicated to wrestle for North Carolina in 2025-26, however administration reportedly nixed the transfer amid Ferrari’s earlier authorized points. He ended up in Lincoln and wrestled heavyweight this season underneath Mark Manning.
There is concept Ferrari may return to 197 kilos in 2026-27, ought to he be granted a yr of eligibility. At both weight, he’ll be within the nationwide title dialog, however it stays to be seen which establishment will deliver him in.
To sustain with the newest gamers on the transfer, try On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are wonderful assets to remain updated with the newest strikes.
