After a year spent recovering from major surgery, Penn State wrestler Aaron Nagao is back on the mat with something to prove. The former All-American has fought through months of uncertainty and rehab. Now he faces another test, competing for the starting spot at 141 pounds in one of the most competitive rooms in college wrestling.   

For the past two seasons, Nagao has battled the unpredictable mix of injuries and adjustments that come with wrestling at the collegiate level. As he looks to return to the mat this season, Nagao is excited to wrestle injury-free.  

“I am excited. It has been two years since I have competed, so I am hoping to shake the dust off,” Nagao said Tuesday. “I think a big part of competing is your mind, and if you are feeling well physically and mentally, you can wrestle free.” 

Nagao arrived in Happy Valley as a transfer from Minnesota, where he earned All-American status at 133 pounds. In his first season at Penn State, Nagao went 17-7 while battling sporadic illness and injury. Prior to the 2024-25 season, he underwent major surgery, forcing him to take an injury redshirt. 

During his time away from competition, Nagao worked on his perspective, leaning heavily into faith. As the Penn State wrestler returns to the mat, he is fueling his athletic ambition with gratitude and trust. 

“The biggest thing I have learned in my time away from the mat is that wrestling isn’t everything, and I have so many other blessings to be happy about,” Nagao said. “I came to Penn State because I felt God told me this is where I needed to be. Having the opportunity to be at Penn State is a promise. I could have been injured again, but I am just grateful to be here.” 

This season, Nagao will be moving up a weight class, competing at 141 pounds. After years of managing to stay at 133 pounds, he feels that he has found a better balance in his new weight.  

“Last time I made 133, it wasn’t fun. I definitely cut a lot of weight, but now things are a lot different,” Nagao said. “I mean, the biggest thing is that I am a lot happier. Hopefully that translates to stronger and better.”      

Nagao’s return also comes with immediate competition inside the Penn State room, as he and teammate Braeden Davis battle for the starting spot at 141 pounds. With a lineup battle looming, Nagao is adopting a mindset that goes beyond simply reclaiming his status.  

“I wouldn’t say it’s a battle, I would say it’s a blessing,” Nagao said. “The quickest way to become a national champion is to have people in the room that you have to compete with. But I also understand that it is a game, and we are also friends and brothers. It is a blessing to be able to sharpen each other.”  

The Nittany Lions open their season this Friday, November 14, when they will face off against Oklahoma in the Bryce Jordan Center at 6 p.m.