Penn State's Aaron Nagao on His Comeback, Decision to Stay, Injury Recovery, & Battle With Davis

Описание: Penn State wrestler Aaron Nagao met with the media ahead of the 2025–26 season, opening up about his recovery from injury, his faith, and his mindset entering the new year at 141 pounds.

Nagao shared how his time off the mat changed his perspective: “Wrestling isn’t everything — I found freedom in my faith and family.” He discussed his decision to stay at Penn State, adding, “If I can’t start here, how can I win a national title? This is the best place in the world to chase those dreams.”

Now healthy, confident, and stronger at a higher weight class, Nagao said he’s focused on enjoying the journey: “Wrestling is a game — it should be fun. I just want to glorify God and let the hard work show.”

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0:00 – Opening: “I’m just grateful to be back on the mat”
0:17 – What he learned from time away: “Wrestling isn’t everything”
0:37 – Moving up to 141 pounds: “I’m happier — and it’s more natural”
1:03 – Returning to the lineup & gratitude for another chance
1:24 – Shane Van Ness’s support after Nagao’s surgery
2:00 – Recovery timeline & trusting his body again
2:24 – Mental reset: “My faith and family keep me grounded”
3:08 – Wrestling with freedom: “My treasure isn’t wrestling anymore”
3:27 – Excitement vs. doubt: “I’m just excited to compete again”
3:51 – Details on recovery: nine months to get back on the mat
4:27 – How to improve while injured: “Healthy mind, healthy wrestling”
4:55 – Weight cut differences between 133 and 141
5:17 – Training with Ono: “He’s so good — a blessing to have in the room”
5:37 – Japanese wrestling style: “Disciplined, agile, and fast”
6:10 – Why he stayed at Penn State: “God told me this is where I belong”
7:13 – Competing for lineup spot: “It’s not a battle — it’s a blessing”
8:00 – Marcus Blaze’s impact & training with elite teammates
8:36 – Closing: “Grateful, confident, and ready to glorify God”