Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson salutes Trump after shocking NCAA win, opens up about Air Force career

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., on President Donald Trump's appearance at the NCAA wrestling championship in Philadelphia and why 'everyone loves' him as a 'fighter.'

Oklahoma State Cowboys wrestler Wyatt Hendrickson saluted President Donald Trump on Saturday night following his historic upset of Minnesota’s Gable Steveson in the 285-pound division at the NCAA Wrestling Championships.

Hendrickson, who is a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, pointed toward the president and gave him a salute as he was handed the American flag. Trump waved his fist in support. He then shook Trump’s hand and hugged him as part of his celebration.

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Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

"It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything," Hendrickson said.

The win was considered one of the biggest upsets in NCAA wrestling history. Steveson was looking for his third national title amid a 70-match winning streak. He won the national titles in 2021 and 2022 before taking a year off in 2023 to pursue the NFL and a WWE career. He came back for the 2024 season.

Steveson gave up a takedown with 20 seconds left in the match. Then, Hendrickson scored once more before time expired. The crowd and the broadcasters were stunned.

Hendrickson touched on his mentality going into the bout and how his faith played a role in his victory.

"I think it's going to be a couple more days before the emotions settle down. But first, I just want to thank my family. I want to thank my lord and savior, Jesus Christ, for blessing me," he said, via ASAP Sports. "In that last