AJ Ferrari, the former Nebraska heavyweight All-American, has entered the NCAA transfer portal. The 2021 NCAA champion’s departure from the Huskers for the 2026-27 season was revealed over the weekend.
Ferrari Seeks New Home
Ferrari, who’s wrestled for Oklahoma State, Cal State Bakersfield and Nebraska, will search for a new home next season. Husker Online reported that he needs a waiver from the NCAA in order to be granted one more year of eligibility.
Ferrari stated he believes he has one, or possibly two, seasons of eligibility remaining. He is “open” to all opportunities but has not indicated where he’ll go.
“Grateful for my time at Nebraska and everyone who’s supported me,” Ferrari wrote on Twitter/X. “Giving all glory to Yahuah for guiding my journey. Entering the transfer portal. Focused, hungry, and ready for what’s next. 1–2 years of eligibility left. Open to all opportunities.”
A Look Back at Ferrari’s Career
Ferrari is a three-time All-American and 2021 NCAA champion. He won the title at 197 pounds at Oklahoma State and finished third at that weight last year for Cal State Bakersfield. He wrestled his last match of the season against Iowa State’s Yonger Bastida, a loss, due to injuries at the NCAA Tournament this year.
- Ferrari holds a 68-7 career record.
- His career began during the shortened 2021 season at Oklahoma State.
- His sophomore season was cut short due to a car accident and subsequent dismissal from the team.
Ferrari did not wrestle for any school in 2023 and ’24, although was linked to Iowa before returning to college wrestling in 2025. He wrestled for Cal State Bakersfield, finishing 3rd at the NCAA Tournament, after Iowa did not work out.
Eligibility and Future Plans
Originally, Ferrari committed to wrestle for North Carolina in 2025-26, but administration reportedly nixed the transfer amid Ferrari’s previous legal issues. He ended up in Lincoln and wrestled heavyweight this season under Mark Manning.
There is speculation Ferrari could return to 197 pounds in 2026-27, should he be granted a year of eligibility. It remains to be seen which institution will bring him in, but he’ll be in the national title conversation at either weight.