Wrestling Prodigy Anthony Knox Jr. Disqualified After Brawl; Cornell Commitment Still Stands
A tumultuous series of events has rocked the New Jersey high school wrestling scene, culminating in the disqualification of Anthony Knox Jr., the nation’s top-ranked 126-pound wrestler, from the state tournament. The disciplinary action stems from a physical altercation that erupted at the NJ District 25 Wrestling Tournament held at Collingswood High School, involving Knox Jr.’s father and other spectators. While Knox Jr.’s immediate wrestling future is uncertain, Cornell University has affirmed its commitment to honoring his scholarship.
The incident unfolded after Knox Jr. had already secured his victory at the district tournament, a win that positioned him as a frontrunner to claim his unprecedented fourth consecutive state title in his weight class. However, the celebratory atmosphere was shattered following the 190-pound final when a brawl erupted in the stands. Video footage captured Anthony Knox Sr. at the heart of the fracas, with his son, Anthony Knox Jr., seen sprinting up the bleachers to join the melee.
Law enforcement intervened, resulting in the arrest of both Knox Sr. and Knox Jr., according to reports from Jersey Sports Zone. The repercussions were swift and severe, with Knox Jr. being disqualified from participating in the highly anticipated state tournament in Atlantic City. The disqualification effectively ends Knox’s high school wrestling career, a stunning blow to the decorated athlete.
The incident immediately cast doubt on Knox Jr.’s future with Cornell University, where he had committed to continue his wrestling career. However, Cornell’s wrestling coach, Mike Grey, quickly addressed the concerns, assuring the wrestling community that Knox Jr.’s scholarship remains intact.
"I had a tough conversation with Knox Jr., and he will still be wrestling for the university in the future," Grey told NJ.com.
Despite Cornell’s unwavering support, the report also suggested that Knox Jr. is contemplating taking a year off before officially enrolling at the university in the 2026-27 academic year. This potential delay could provide Knox Jr. with an opportunity to address the aftermath of the incident and prepare for the transition to collegiate wrestling.
The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) released a formal statement outlining the rationale behind Knox Jr.’s disqualification from the state tournament.
"Earlier today, I informed the Saint John Vianney High School administration that the student-athlete wrestling in the 126-pound weight class has been disqualified from the NJSIAA wrestling state tournament," stated NJSIAA Executive Director Colleen Maguire to Fox News Digital.
Maguire elaborated that the disqualification was a direct consequence of her investigation into the events that transpired on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at the district tournament hosted at Collingswood High School.
"I have determined that the disqualified student-athlete violated both the association’s sportsmanship policy and its disqualification rule for leaving the bench area during an altercation," Maguire explained. "My role is to uphold the integrity of high school athletics by ensuring that all participants adhere to the same rules and are held to the same standards of sportsmanship and safety."
Maguire emphasized that the NJSIAA cannot and will not condone actions that violate its sportsmanship policy or its member school-approved rules. The decision to disqualify Knox Jr. was not taken lightly, considering the profound impact it would have on his high school career.
Knox Jr. also addressed the situation via a statement on Instagram.
"As many of you know, I have been disqualified from my next two matches due to an unfortunate incident that occurred in the stands at Collingswood HS well after I had finished competing at the district tournament," Knox Jr. wrote. "Like anyone, my only concern at that time was protecting the safety of my family."
Knox Jr. acknowledged the NJSIAA’s decision and stated that his family is currently reviewing their options to determine the best course of action moving forward. He expressed disappointment with the outcome but reiterated his commitment to supporting his teammates who are still competing.
"No matter what happens next, I will continue to train, compete, and push myself to be the best wrestler and person I can be as I continue my career onward at Cornell University," Knox Jr. stated. "I’m more motivated than ever and excited to prove to everyone what I already know, that I’m the best there is."
The incident has sparked widespread debate within the wrestling community and beyond, with opinions divided on the appropriateness of the NJSIAA’s decision. Some argue that Knox Jr.’s actions, while regrettable, were motivated by a desire to protect his family. Others maintain that his behavior violated the organization’s rules and undermined the principles of sportsmanship. Regardless of perspective, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining composure and adhering to established guidelines, even in emotionally charged situations.
As Knox Jr. navigates the complexities of this situation, his future in wrestling remains bright. With Cornell University’s continued support and his unwavering determination, he has the potential to overcome this setback and achieve even greater success in his collegiate career.
