Josh Ihnen came into the Cyclone Open as the odds-on favorite at 184 pounds. What the University of Nebraska star was not counting on was Kyven Gadson.

Ihnen, ranked seventh in the nation by Intermatwrestle.com, fell to the Cyclone redshirt freshman via pinfall in the second round.

“It felt good to go out and win a big match like that,” Gadson said. “Coach [Kevin] Jackson always talks to us about going out there and dominating, and that’s what I wanted to do today.”

Gadson was part of a group of young talent that had their coming-out party at the Harold Nichols Cyclone Open. Much of the ISU roster was freshmen who were battling in their very first collegiate competition.

Ryak Finch also claimed a title for the Cyclones, in the 125-pound division. The freshman from Safford, Ariz., received a first-round bye before collecting a pin and back-to-back major decisions on his way to the top.

Finch credits much of his success to the coaching staff and believes his performance is a reflection of “what they are teaching and shows where the program is going.”

Gadson and Finch also hold each other responsible for their victories in the tournament. As roommates, they have been pushing each other since day one.

“We started talking in the spring and really connected,” Finch said.

Upon arrival at Iowa State, they became roommates and began training together. Despite the vast size difference, both former multi-time state champions have continued their top-level work ethics and have the goal of being the last at the workouts.

Gadson said their goal is “complete domination.”

Michael Moreno also stepped into the spotlight alongside his fellow freshmen. The former Iowa high school state champion was unable to come away with a first place crown, but still garnered a third-place performance in a very tough 165-pound bracket.

“Overall I’m pretty happy with my day,” Moreno said. “The seven-minute match is a change and I’m still adapting to the daily grind.”

Moreno’s strong technique and skills were tested today against one of the top grapplers in the nation, Jordan Burroughs. Burroughs, a former national champion for the University of Nebraska, received a sixth year of eligibility via medical redshirt last season. 

“It was crazy. This is a guy I watched in high school and now I’m out there on the mat with him,” Moreno said, whose quest to a title was cut short by Burroughs in the semifinals. “His quickness is legendary. It really taught me a lot.”

Jackson was also pleased with Moreno’s performance, as well as that of Gadson and Finch.

“We are excited about how they wrestled and competed. We see a bright future for these guys,” Jackson said.

In regards to redshirting, Jackson believes Moreno, Gadson, and Finch will all continue to redshirt this season and develop their skills for the future.