The University of Wyoming wrestling team is set to kick off the 2024-25 season in a unique dual event against Campbell University, held at Cheyenne’s historic Frontier Park, County 10 reports.
Dubbed “The Dual at the Daddy,” the event is scheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m., and will be broadcast exclusively on UFC Fight Pass. Attendance is by invitation only due to limited space at the outdoor venue, which is a one-of-a-kind setting on the grounds of Cheyenne Frontier Days.
The matchup marks the second consecutive year the Cowboys and Camels have partnered with the UFC for a creative season opener. Last year, the teams clashed in the “Battle in the Barn” in Centennial, where Campbell emerged victorious with a score of 23-12. Wyoming head coach Mark Branch hopes the team’s growth and experience from last season will give them an edge this time around.
“To kick off the college wrestling season in front of a national and world audience is an honor… We want to showcase not only our program but the sport itself, and this dual will be exciting to watch,” Branch stated.
The Wyoming lineup boasts seasoned wrestlers, including Jore Volk (125), who achieved All-American status last season, finishing seventh at the NCAA Championships and clinching a Big 12 title with an impressive 27-8 record. Key returners also include Gabe Willochell (149) and Joey Novak (197), who each scored notable upsets at both the NCAA and Big 12 tournaments last season.
Campbell enters the season as the preseason favorite to win the Southern Conference title. The Camels return four NCAA qualifiers, including All-American Taye Ghadiali (HWT), though standout Levi Hopkins (197) will miss Thursday’s event.
The Cowboys will return to Laramie on November 9 to face Western Wyoming, which will include an intrasquad scrimmage as part of Wyoming’s Brown and Gold match.
