Anthony Knox: From High School Phenom to Cornell Wrestling
Anthony Knox, a highly touted wrestling prospect, has committed to Cornell University to pursue his college career under coach Mike Grey. This decision marks the next chapter for Knox, a two-time New Jersey state champion and a dominant force on the high school wrestling scene.
A Prized Recruit
Knox, ranked #4 in the class of 2024, announced his commitment live during the Super 32 broadcast after securing his second Super 32 title in his third finals appearance. His addition bolsters Cornell's already impressive 2025 recruiting class, which includes other highly-ranked prospects.
Early Success and National Recognition
Before his college commitment, FloWrestling followed Anthony Knox on June 15, the first day of his college recruiting process from midnight on. Knox's rise to prominence began early in his career. As an eighth-grader, he stepped onto the mats at Fargo, ND, and despite being unranked due to his age, he quickly proved his mettle by winning the U16 freestyle championship at 106 pounds.
High School Dominance
Knox's high school career was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed a 144-1 record, securing four district, four region, and four state championships. His dominance was further highlighted by bonus-point victories in 17 of his 20 career state tournament bouts. He also claimed three titles at the prestigious Beast of the East Tournament, solidifying his status as one of the nation's top high school wrestlers.
Knox joins a select group of New Jersey wrestlers who have achieved the feat of becoming four-time state champions, including Nick Suriano (Bergen Catholic), Anthony Ashnault (South Plainfield), Andrew Campolattano (Bound Brook), and Mike Grey (Delbarton).
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Super 32 Triumph
Anthony Knox showcased his skills at Super 32, a prestigious high school wrestling tournament held annually in Greensboro, N.C. In October 2022, the tournament featured over 160 wrestlers ranked in the top 20 in their weight class, making it a highly competitive event.
Knox's victory at Super 32 further cemented his reputation as a top prospect. He demonstrated his ability to compete against the best wrestlers in the country and emerge victorious.
Who's Number One
Anthony Knox participated in Who's Number One, an event that showcases the nation's top high school wrestlers. In 2022, he faced Christian Castillo, the top-ranked 106-pounder, in a #1 vs #1 showdown. Knox, who was ranked #1 at 113 pounds at the time, took on the challenge of wrestling up a weight class.
Controversy and Challenges
Despite his success on the mat, Knox faced controversy during his senior year. Following a brawl in the stands at a district tournament, where his father was allegedly involved after confronting fans for racial slurs, Knox Jr. was seen in video footage of the brawl sprinting up the bleachers to join in. Both Knox Sr. and Knox Jr. were arrested, and Knox Jr. was initially disqualified from participating in the state tournament.
The NJSIAA released a statement explaining their decision to disqualify Knox, citing violations of the association's sportsmanship policy and its disqualification rule for leaving the bench area during an altercation.
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However, Knox's lawyer successfully obtained a temporary restraining order, allowing him to participate in the Region 7 Tournament. Ultimately, Knox's legal team was able to get the ruling overturned, and he was able to compete in the state tournament.
Knox himself released a statement on Instagram, expressing his disappointment with the outcome but also stating his commitment to supporting his teammates and continuing his career at Cornell University.
Cornell University and Future Plans
Despite the controversy surrounding the end of his high school career, Mike Grey, Cornell’s wrestling coach, confirmed that Knox Jr. will still be wrestling for the university in the future. It may not come next season, as the report added that Knox has discussed taking a year off before enrolling in 2026-27. Knox's decision to join Cornell adds to the program's reputation as a wrestling powerhouse. He joins a tough Cornell class of 2025 that already has commitments from 174 lbs prospect #19 Alessio Perentin, 197 lbs prospect Elijah Diakomihalis, and 285 lbs prospects #66 Rocco Dellagatta and Jake Conroy. With his talent and dedication, he is expected to make a significant impact on the team.
Legacy
How Anthony Knox will be remembered is in the eye of the beholder. Some believe his legacy is tarnished and that he should not have been able to wrestle the remainder of the postseason. Others believe he acted in defense of his family and should not be punished for that. However, strictly on the mat, there is no debate. Inside the circle, however, his greatness is unquestioned. He entered high school with immense hype after a decorated youth career and he lived up to all of it. Ranked No. After that, he was unstoppable. The loss only fueled his fire and set him back on course for a legendary career. He finished his four years with a 144-1 record, winning four district, four region, and four state championships. He won by bonus points in 17 of his 20 career state tournament bouts, won three titles at the prestigious Beast of the East Tournament, and helped St.
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