BREAKING: Braeden Davis Inks Historic Wrestling Deal—Stays at Penn Through 2032 in Groundbreaking Extension
In an unprecedented move that’s sending shockwaves through the collegiate wrestling world, NCAA champion and rising wrestling icon Braeden Davis has signed a groundbreaking contract extension to remain at the University of Pennsylvania through 2032. This historic deal marks the first of its kind in collegiate wrestling, combining athletic competition with a pioneering hybrid role in mentorship, brand development, and athlete advocacy.
Davis, 22, who rocketed to national prominence after an electrifying freshman season at 125 pounds, captured hearts and headlines with his underdog NCAA title run in 2024. Since then, he has only sharpened his dominance on the mat, winning back-to-back titles and compiling an undefeated record across dual meets and national tournaments. But what truly sets this deal apart is its scope: Davis isn’t just staying on as an athlete—he’s helping redefine what it means to be one.
Under the terms of the extension, Davis will continue to compete through his remaining eligibility, which is bolstered by redshirt years and Olympic deferments, allowing him to wrestle into the 2028 season. Following that, Davis will transition into a newly created position titled Athlete-in-Residence, where he will mentor incoming wrestlers, help guide Penn’s NIL strategy, and serve as a national ambassador for collegiate wrestling.
“This is bigger than just me staying at Penn,” Davis said at Thursday’s press conference, flanked by Penn Athletic Director Dr. Margo Ryland and wrestling head coach Roger Reina. “This is about showing that collegiate wrestling has a future that rewards excellence, loyalty, and vision.”
The deal includes a structured NIL package, partially backed by a consortium of Penn alumni, local sponsors, and national sports apparel brands. Though financial details remain undisclosed, sources close to the program describe the deal as “seven figures across its lifetime,” making it the most lucrative individual arrangement in NCAA wrestling history.
Coach Reina called the agreement a “transformational moment” for the program and the sport. “We’re not just keeping a generational talent,” he said. “We’re building a bridge between tradition and evolution. Braeden is the cornerstone of that vision.”
Davis’s commitment extends beyond the mat. His new role will see him launching the Next Champion Initiative, a mentorship pipeline for high school wrestlers in underserved communities. With backing from Penn’s Wharton School and alumni foundations, the program aims to support student-athletes academically, financially, and athletically.
As Olympic hopefuls gear up for Paris 2028 and Los Angeles 2032, Davis’s trajectory places him at the heart of the sport’s renaissance. His extension at Penn is not merely a career decision—it’s a declaration: wrestling is ready to enter the era of marquee athletes, long-term vision, and institutional innovation.
From underdog to institution, Braeden Davis has pinned down history—and he’s just getting started.
