There Are 49 Wrestlers Who Have Won Exactly Three D1 NCAA Wrestling Titles. By Far, Oklahoma State Has the Most 3X Champs (15), Then Iowa Has the Second Most (7)….Who Are the 3X NCAA Champions?

There are 49 wrestlers who have achieved the remarkable feat of winning exactly three D1 NCAA Wrestling titles. When it comes to producing 3-time champions, one college wrestling program stands head and shoulders above the rest – Oklahoma State.

With an impressive total of 15 3X champs, the Cowboys have firmly established themselves as a powerhouse in collegiate wrestling. Following closely behind is Iowa with the second most number of 3-time NCAA champions, boasting a respectable tally of 7.

Oklahoma State: The Home of Champions

Oklahoma State University has a long and storied history in collegiate wrestling, with a rich tradition of producing top-tier athletes. The Cowboys’ dominance in the sport is undeniable, as reflected by their record-breaking number of 3-time NCAA champions.

The Elite Group of Cowboys

Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable wrestlers who have achieved this incredible milestone while donning the orange and black singlet:

• Pat Smith: Pat Smith is not only an Oklahoma State legend but also holds the distinction of being the first wrestler ever to win four NCAA titles. His incredible career spanned from 1990 to 1994, during which he secured three consecutive championships from ’92 to ’94.
• Jordan Oliver: Another standout wrestler from Oklahoma State, Jordan Oliver claimed his three national titles in just two years!

  He won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012 before clinching his third title in 2014.

• John Smith: John Smith is widely regarded as one of the all-time greats in collegiate wrestling. As an athlete, he captured two Olympic gold medals alongside his remarkable achievements at Oklahoma State. Smith secured his three NCAA championships between 1987 and 1990, solidifying his legacy as an Oklahoma State wrestling legend.

Iowa: A Wrestling Powerhouse

While Oklahoma State may hold the record for the most 3-time NCAA champions, the University of Iowa is no slouch when it comes to producing elite wrestlers. The Hawkeyes have nurtured some of the sport’s finest talents, with seven athletes achieving the coveted status of a 3-time champion.

Hawkeye Heroes

Let’s shine a spotlight on a few of Iowa’s accomplished wrestlers who have left an indelible mark in NCAA wrestling history:

• Tom Brands: Tom Brands was a force to be reckoned with during his time at Iowa. He captured three consecutive national titles from 1990 through 1992 and went on to become a successful coach, leading the Hawkeyes to multiple team championships.
• Terry Brands: Terry Brands, twin brother of Tom Brands, also made his mark on the wrestling mat.

  He secured three NCAA titles during his collegiate career at Iowa, winning them in ’91, ’92, and ’94.

• Cael Sanderson: Although Cael Sanderson achieved his legendary status as a wrestler at Iowa State University, it’s worth mentioning him here due to his remarkable record. Sanderson remains undefeated throughout his college career and claimed four consecutive NCAA titles from 1999 to 2002.

The list of extraordinary wrestlers who have won three D1 NCAA Wrestling titles goes beyond just Oklahoma State and Iowa. Wrestlers from various universities across the nation have etched their names into this exclusive group of champions.

By celebrating the achievements of these exceptional athletes, we pay homage to their dedication, perseverance, and undeniable talent. They have left an indelible mark on the sport of wrestling and continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers.