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Rutgers Wrestling Star Joey Olivieri Makes Triumphant Return against Princeton

Sports

Business Honor
17 February, 2026

Senior Wrestler Dominates in Comeback Performance, Leads Scarlet Knights to Decisive Victory.

After a significant hiatus from the lineup due to coach Scott Goodale's "violation of team rules," Joey Olivieri returned to the mat on Monday night to help propel Rutgers University to a resounding 28-9 victory over in-state rival Princeton, a dramatic turnaround that was highlighted by Olivieri's explosive performance, dominating 19-2 technical fall against the Tigers' Matthew Martino and showcasing the competitive spirit of the Scarlet Knights.

Olivia's performance, particularly considering this was his first time back wrestling game since mid-December, is significant not only for him, as he is currently ranked eighth in the Coaches' rankings and considered by most to be Rutgers' best shot at an All-American. His performance on Senior Night was a great representation of the depth of Rutgers' wrestling team. The dual meet also included another example of the team's overall depth and energy with the victory of senior Andy Clark over 10th ranked Eligh Rivera (2-1) being critical to the team victory and with senior Andrew Barbosa getting a close 4-3 decision over Ty Whalen sealing up the team win.

The Scarlet Knights continue to have a great wrestling season, particularly after this huge win over the weekend at Binghamton, and they still have something to strive for in their dual meet against Hofstra on Wednesday night. The combined return of Olivieri and the team's ability to succeed throughout the entire collegiate wrestling season is huge for Rutgers and serves as an example of how they can, will, and have to be able to overcome adversity to achieve excellence in wrestling and in every other sport at their school.