Tony Freeman - New Mexico Warrior

We would like to commemorate former Manzano Monarch, Tony Freeman. A Tiger from the past that could very well be one of the best light-heavyweights to ever step on the mat for New Mexico.

Tony started his wrestling career as a Manzano Monarch, nicknamed "The Tiger" by his Mom as a baby because she always craved Frosted Flakes while pregnant with him, according to sources. Tony was one match away from placing at state in the 167-pound weight class his freshman year. As a sophomore and junior, Tony placed 3rd at the 185-pound weight class both years. Tony capped off his high school career as a senior with a 25-0 record, claiming his first state title in 1988. Later that year, Tony also earned All-American honors, placing 8th at Asics Freestyle Nationals at the 178-pound weight class.

Tony went on to wrestle in college at CSU-Pueblo under Head Coach Doug Moses, where he was a 3X All-American. As a sophomore, Tony placed 5th at the NAIA National Championships in 1990. His most impressive title came in his junior year in 1991, when he placed 2nd at the NAIA National Championships. The team Tony was a part of in 1991 was also inducted into the CSU-Pueblo Hall of Fame in 2017. In 1992, CSU-Pueblo switched from the NAIA to the NCAA Division 2. As a senior, Tony placed 5th at the NCAA Division 2 National Championships, giving himself bragging rights as the first New Mexican to earn All-American honors at that level.

Presently, Tony resides in Pueblo with his wife Terri and their 4 boys. All are exceptional athletes and honor students. Zion, a senior, Xavier, a freshman, Sebastian, an 8th grader, and Justus, a 5th grader. All hats off to future New Mexico Hall of Fame Wrestling Legend Tony Freeman!

Article By: Mikey Lovato

2/14/2019