Rico Montoya & Real Woods Smash Their Way Into The Finals At The Southern Scuffle

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - This year The Southern Scuffle was full of excitement for New Mexico wrestling fans. Two New Mexican natives got the opportunity to participate in this year's fun. The Scuffle is said to be one of the toughest college tournaments around. With gritty competition, it is a good tournament to measure where you stand before entering the mid-point of the college season.

Senior Rico Montoya out of Northern Colorado previously placed 4th at the Scuffle last year. This year Rico forced himself into the 125-pound finals match becoming the first UNC Bear to make it that far. Despite a 2nd place finish Rico had a great performance with plenty to measure. UNC head coach Troy Nickerson praised Rico's performance by mentioning the improvements he is making as the season progresses. Rico has been climbing the rankings this season as he makes a strong approach towards the NCAA Division 1 tournament. With that being said New Mexico wrestling fans are backing Rico Montoya after a great performance thus far. One of Rico's greatest attributes is the heart he shows on the mat, with continuous improvements New Mexico could very well see their first NCAA Division 1 National Champion.

In 141-pound weight class at the Scuffle, wrestling out of Stanford University is native New Mexican Real Woods. Red-shirting this year as a true freshman wrestling unattached. Real's presence was immediately known at the Scuffle as he bulldozed his way through the competition into the finals. Showing no sign of wet feet with his transition from High School competition to college competition. Matter of fact Real looked like a seasoned bully. His semifinals match drove deep into overtime with no signs of fatigue coming from the true freshman. Although the match seemed close, Real was in the diver seat the whole time. #18 Nick Gil (Navy) could barely get past Real's head in the match, much less sniff a takedown on the much stronger freshman. After a gritty battle in the finals by Real the match went to #4 Nick Lee (Penn State). However, Real looked impressive and showed definite indication he is more than ready to compete with anyone.

Rico Montoya and Real Woods definitely gave the New Mexico wrestling community something to shout at after their performances at the Scuffle. We all anticipate the excitement that is coming our way.

Article By Anonymous

Date: 1/8/19