By Hawk Fanatic

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa Wrestling fans received a blast from the past on Monday when Michael Mocco committed to the program. The highly-regarded Class of 2026 recruit is the son of former Hawkeye national champion, Steve Mocco.

“I’m excited to announce my commitment to the University of Iowa. I feel blessed to have these opportunities and I’m excited for what the future holds. Go hawks!” Michael Mocco announced on Instagram.

“I’d like to thank my family, friends, teammates, and coaches for everything they have done for me. They have helped me in so many ways. All glory to god.”

His pledge was well received by future teammates, Bo Bassett, Angelo Ferrari and Ben Kueter.

Bassett is Flo Wrestling’s top-ranked ’26 recruit nationally, regardless of weight. Mocco checks in at No. 15.

A three-time prep state champion, Flo Wrestling views Mocco as one of the country’s top prep heavyweights. The South Florida product has a U17 freestyle world title to his name.

Steve Mocco committed to the Hawkeyes as a member of their ’01 recruiting class. Like his son, Steve was one of the country’s best at the time.

After a runner-up finish as a freshman at the ’22 NCAA tournament, Steven won a national championship as an Iowa sophomore. He transferred to Oklahoma State following an Olympic redshirt year and captured his second national title in ’24. Steven fell in the final as a senior, finishing his college career with a 137-6 record.