Iowa Wrestling vs Wisconsin: How to Watch, Time, Streaming Info, and Full Lineup Breakdown
Big Ten wrestling is officially back, and it starts with a rivalry that never disappoints. Iowa wrestling vs Wisconsin takes center stage Friday night as the No. 4 Hawkeyes welcome the No. 18 Badgers to Carver-Hawkeye Arena in a matchup packed with history, rankings, and postseason implications.
There’s something different in the air when Big Ten duals begin. Every bout matters. Every point feels heavier. And for Iowa, this one sets the tone for the entire 2026 conference slate.
Iowa wrestling vs Wisconsin: Big Ten rivalry returns to Carver-Hawkeye Arena
Iowa enters the night with a 7–2 record and plenty of momentum. The Hawkeyes are riding a two-dual winning streak after taking down Chattanooga and Utah State at the Journeymen Wrestling “Uncivil War” event on Dec. 12 in Hannibal, Missouri. Those wins helped steady the ship after a tough 20-14 loss to No. 3 Iowa State on Nov. 30 a match that reminded everyone just how thin the margin is at the top of college wrestling.
Wisconsin, meanwhile, arrives unbeaten at 8–0 and ranked No. 18 nationally. That perfect record adds an extra layer of intrigue, especially with the Badgers opening Big Ten play on hostile territory. Carver-Hawkeye Arena has long been one of the sport’s toughest road environments, and Friday night promises another electric atmosphere.
For Iowa, this dual isn’t just about one opponent. It’s about measuring themselves against the Big Ten’s elite programs like Penn State, Nebraska, Ohio State, Minnesota, and Illinois. A strong showing here would send a message that the Hawkeyes are ready to contend deep into the conference season.
How to watch Iowa wrestling vs Wisconsin live
Fans who can’t make it to Iowa City still have multiple ways to follow every takedown and escape.
Streaming: BTN+ (subscription required)
Monthly pass: $12.99
Annual pass: $89.99
Radio:
AM 800 KXIC
Hawkeye Radio Network
Hawkeyesports.com (via YouTube stream)
Veteran voices Steven Grace and Mark Ironside will be on the call, bringing expert analysis and the kind of insight only longtime Hawkeye wrestling fans expect.
Start Time: 7 p.m. CT
Probable Iowa Hawkeyes wrestling lineup vs Wisconsin
Iowa’s lineup is loaded with ranked wrestlers and proven performers, giving fans plenty to watch across all 10 weights.
125: Dean Peterson (Sr., 7-1, ranked 6/7/4)
133: Drake Ayala (Sr., 4-3, ranked 4/4/4)
141: Nasir Bailey (Jr., 9-5, ranked 12/14/8)
149: Ryder Block (So., 6-1, ranked 7/9/12)
157: Jordan Williams (Jr., 7-2, ranked 12/10/12)
or Victor Voinovich III (Sr., 7-4)
165: Michael Caliendo (Sr., 8-1, ranked 3/3/4)
174: Patrick Kennedy (Fifth year, 8-1, ranked 3/3/2)
184: Angelo Ferrari (Redshirt freshman, 8-0, ranked 1/1/2)
197: Gabe Arnold (So., 10-1)
or Harvey Ludington (Fr., 8-0 / 3-2*)
or Brody Sampson (R-Fr., 7-6)
285: Ben Kueter (So., 2-1, ranked 5/5/5/5)
Ferrari remains one of the most exciting young stars in the lineup, while veterans like Caliendo and Kennedy provide stability in the heart of the order. Heavyweight Ben Kueter continues to develop, and Friday’s matchup offers another valuable test.
Why this dual matters
Big Ten schedules don’t offer many soft landings, and Iowa knows it. Starting conference play with a ranked, undefeated opponent is a challenge — but also an opportunity. A convincing performance against Wisconsin would add confidence and momentum as the Hawkeyes push toward February and March.
One thing is certain: when Iowa wrestling takes the mat under the lights in Carver-Hawkeye Arena, fans are in for a night worth watching.
