St. John Vianney’s Anthony Knox is involved in an ongoing saga for a fourth straight New Jersey wrestling state championship. Jersey Sports Zone will provide updates as the story develops

Friday 2/28 Update

Mercer County Superior Court Judge Patrick J. Bartels announced that three-time New Jersey state champion Anthony Knox has been granted a temporary restraining order and will be allowed to wrestle at the Region 7 tournament today at Lacey High School.

In a 19-page opinion, Bartels sided with Knox in seeing a violation of his 14th amendment rights.

” Violating fundamental fairness provides irreparable harm. Because of the importance of high school sports and fair process, this Court finds plaintiff (Knox) faces irreparable harm by being disqualified. Although New Jersey courts generally abstain from intervening in decisions of voluntary associations, this Court finds it appropriate to step in. High school sports serve an important place in society and must remain above reproach.”

“Given the prominent role high school athletics play in society, this court acknowledges irreparable harm to someone at the pinnacle of his high school career.”

Knox’s bid to become the fifth-ever four-time New Jersey state champion is back on track. He is a heavy favorite to win his fourth region championship this weekend in Ocean County.

Wednesday 2/26 Update

Three-time NJ state champ Anthony Knox of St. John Vianney will have a court hearing via Zoom on Thursday at 10:30 am as first reported by Ryan Patti of NJ.com. Knox has filed a complaint with the NJSIAA after being disqualified from the state wrestling tournament following a brawl involving himself and his father in Collingswood during the District 25 tournament.  Hackensack based attorney Patrick J. Jennings will represent Knox.
St. John Vianney athletic director Richard Lamberson released a statement that included “The NJSIAA has concluded its investigation into this incident, and Saint John Vianney High School Administration respects the decision. Saint John Vianney High School will fully abide by the repercussions and recommendations set forth by the NJSIAA.”

Tuesday 2/25: Knox disqualified by NJSIAA

Three-time New Jersey state champion Anthony Knox of St. John Vianney has been disqualified from the NJSIAA wrestling tournament following an altercation at the District 25 tournament in Collingswood last weekend. Knox and his father were detained by police following a brawl in the stands after the 190 lb. final. Knox earlier won the 126 lb. district title.  The NJSIAA made the decision after an investigation that featured multiple videos of the incident.  Knox is the No. 1 ranked 126 pound wrestler in the US and was heavily favored to become NJ’s fifth-ever four-time state champion. He finishes his career with a 136-1 record and 123 straight wins.

Here’s the full statement from NJSIAA Executive Director Colleen Maguire

“Earlier today, I informed the Saint John Vianney High School administration that the student-athlete wrestling in the 126lb weight class has been disqualified from the NJSIAA wrestling state tournament. The disqualification was the result of my investigation into an incident that occurred on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the district tournament hosted at Collingswood High School. I have determined that the disqualified student-athlete violated both the Association’s sportsmanship policy and its disqualification rule for leaving the bench area during an altercation.

“I would like to thank the administrators and coaches from our member schools and those spectators who provided written statements and videos to assist the investigation.  I also would like to thank event staff security and the Collingswood police department for their efficient handling of this incident, which allowed the tournament to be completed without further incident.

“The Region 7 tournament bracket for the 126lb weight class will now be reseeded accordingly.

“I did not make this decision lightly. I am fully aware of the consequences to the student-athlete. He is a senior and this disqualification effectively ends his high school career. However, my role is to uphold the integrity of high school athletics by ensuring that all participants adhere to the same rules and are held to the same standards of sportsmanship and safety.

“Let it be clear, the Association cannot, and will not, condone actions that violate its sportsmanship policy or its member school approved rules.”

Anthony Knox Statement (via Instagram)

“I want to take a moment to thank everyone for the incredible support I’ve received throughout my wrestling career and especially over the past few days. Wrestling has given me so much and I am beyond grateful for my teammates, coaches, family, and the amazing community that has stood by me.

“As many of you know, I have been disqualified from my next two matches due to an unfortunate incident that occurred in the stands at Collingswood HS well after I had finished competing at the district tournament. Like anyone, my only concern at that time was protecting the safety of my family. While I respect the NJSIAA’s decision, my family and I are currently reviewing our options to determine the best course of action moving forward.

“I am disappointed in this outcome, but remain happy and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had. l am committed to supporting my teammates still representing our school and the sport of wrestling with the same passion and dedication that got us here. No matter what happens next, I will continue to train, compete, and push myself to be the best wrestler and person I can be as I continue my career onward at Cornell University.

“Thank you all for your continued love and support. It truly means the world to me.

“I’m more motivated than ever and excited to prove to everyone what I already know, that I’m the best there is.”