PARK CITY, Kan. – The 2026 NAIA Men's Wrestling National Championships wrapped up its opening day Thursday at Hartman Arena, with two Eastern Oregon wrestlers advancing to Day Two of the tournament.

At 133 pounds, Braden Carson battled his way into the second day through the consolation bracket. Carson opened the tournament with a 6–3 decision over Aurelio Mendez of Cornerstone before dropping a second-round match to No. 6 Luke Rioux of Indiana Tech. Facing elimination, Carson responded with a strong 5–3 decision against Leland Camp of Reinhardt, securing his spot in Friday's competition.

At 285 pounds, Nico Rodriguez will also return for Day Two after a resilient showing in the consolation rounds. Rodriguez fell in his opening match via sudden victory decision, but bounced back with two key wins to stay alive in the bracket. He first recorded a 6:16 fall over Kaiden Cisneros of Arizona Christian, then followed it up with a 4–1 decision against Daguy Massillon of Keiser.

Kai Carson, Cole Cross, and Carlos Valdez were each eliminated from the tournament after dropping their two matches on the day.

Carson and Rodriguez will continue their runs Friday in the consolation brackets, needing to fight through the field with hopes of finishing in the top eight and earning NAIA All-American honors.

To view the full bracket and additional championship information: NAIA Men's Wrestling