I feel terrible for Spencer. I’ve thought he was the best wrestler in the world since his freshman year at Iowa. I still believe that when he is at his best, he is the best in the world.
This tournament was clearly not his best. Have no idea why that is, but have to wonder if he’s wrestling with a ton of pressure. He has his own personal expectations, and is one of the most hyped wrestlers of all times. Plus, like it or not, he is solely carrying the legacy of Iowa Wrestling on his shoulders. I don’t know whether or not the pressure got to him, but I can see that causing issues.
Hope he bounces back and gets a world title eventually. The good thing is I don’t see anyone beating him domestically for a couple of years. So as long as he stays healthy, he’ll get another shot.