Gray wins second national title

Proud Choctaw Heath Gray won his second national title on March 12, 2022, in St. Louis, Missouri. Gray claimed his second straight championship at 184 pounds.

The University of Central Oklahoma Broncos, Gray’s team, ended with six All-Americans, the most since having the same number in 2013. The No. 2-ranked Bronchos ended with 86 points for their best national finish since 2007 and the ninth runner-up showing in program history to go along with 15 titles.

Gray downed West Liberty’s Connor Craig in the finals for the second straight time, winning 4-3 this time after beating the 2019 champion 3-2 last year.

The senior star had a first-period takedown and third-period reverse while giving up three escapes in capping off a 16-1 season. He became the 11th four-time All-American, and 17th two-time national champion in school history while finishing a phenomenal 94-4 for his UCO career.

“The main thing is being under the big lights,” Gray said. “You get to the big tournament and it’s a weight off my shoulders and I can just go wrestle. I love the huge atmosphere. It’s what we’ve been working for all year.”