Indiana set to host Purdue for latest bout in wrestling rivalry

Just one year ago, Indiana wrestling defeated Purdue for the first time since 2010, claiming a dramatic 17-16 walk off victory in West Lafayette. This year, the Boilermakers will make the trip down south to try and even the score in Wilkinson Hall.

The Hoosiers and Boilermakers have had slow starts to the Big Ten season as Purdue is 5-6 (0-3 Big Ten) competition and Indiana is 4-2 (1-2 in the Big Ten). Purdue is the home to NCAA runner-up and No. 1 redshirt junior Matt Ramos, among three other ranked wrestlers. However, what Indiana lacks in star power, it makes up for in consistency, boasting six wrestlers in the national rankings.  

This year, both teams have brought fresh faces to the lineup. 

Purdue added a blue-chip recruit and rising star in freshman Joey Blaze, who ranks No. 18 at 157 lbs and has proven himself a tough challenge for anyone in the country, garnering wins over multiple All-Americans this season. 

For the Hoosiers, redshirt senior No. 20 Brayton Lee has wrestled well in his first season wearing the cream and crimson. Lee gained his first ranked victory of the season against Maryland and owns a 2-0 record on the year at the 157 lbs weight class. Lee came into the Hoosier lineup by way of the transfer portal after spending three prior seasons with the University of Minnesota, where he became a two-time All-American. 

This marquee match-up between Lee and Blaze will answer many remaining questions about the pair. Has Lee returned to form after being plagued by injuries? Does Blaze have the poise to take out a veteran like Lee in enemy territory? Can Lee or Blaze contend for All-American status this season?  

These questions and more will be answered at 7 p.m. Saturday night inside Wilkinson Hall.