Penn State wrestler Roman Bravo-Young signs major name, image, and likeness deal
Penn State wrestler Roman Bravo-Young has entered into a new name, image, and likeness agreement.
According to longtime mixed martial arts reporter Ariel Helwani, the two-time NCAA champion and 133-pound Penn State star has signed on with a massive MMA manager. And, it’s part of the same outfit that represented college wrestling legend and Olympic champion Gable Steveson.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“2x National Champ @RomanBravoYoung has signed an NIL marketing deal with famed MMA manager @magllc,” Helwani wrote on Twitter. “RBY trains with the likes of Dom Cruz & could be en route to MMA soon. 135. Would be a huge prospect. Already has 1 deal signed. Could go for the three-peat next season before MMA.
“Long-time MMA manager Randel Aleman, who works with the likes of Luke Rockhold, Michael Chandler and Robbie Lawler got the deal done. Same group that signed Gable Steveson to the NIL deal last summer.”
NIL will be part of Bravo-Young’s last year at Penn State
Bravo-Young announced in May that he would return for his final season at Penn State. It ended a winding journey for the grappler that saw him say prior to the 2021-2022 season that it would be his last ride in a blue and white singlet.
However, as the season progressed, he softened that stance some. Then, after winning the 133-pound title over Oklahoma State’s Daton Fix by decision, 3-2, he left the door open to returning. But, garnering name, image, and likeness opportunities seemed to be a big part of him doing so. And now, those are starting to come in.
Helwani reported that Bravo-Young had one deal signed prior to the one announced on Thursday. It is unclear who that agreement is with. But, the Penn State wrestler was one of 19 Lions to attend the recently-completed inaugural NIL Summit in Atlanta.
“The history of wrestling at Penn State is long and storied, and the last decade-plus has been unmatched,” Bravo-Young wrote in a released statement when he announced his return. “To have played a part in what we have accomplished as a team over the years is humbling and I am forever grateful for the opportunity.
“After talking at length with my coaches and my family, it is time for me to do what is best for myself and my future and I will return to Penn State for my final year of eligibility. How could I pass up an opportunity to compete for another individual crown and bring back another team title to Penn State? Let’s roll this back and get to work.”
Bravo-Young did post a video of himself working out with UFC welterweight Belal Muhammad on Thursday. However, every indication is that his mixed martial arts career will start one his pursuit of a third national title ends.
