A high school wrestler in Illinois has been charged with assault after video of him sucker-punching an opponent after losing a match earlier this month went viral, prompting a police investigation.
The 14-year-old offender, who police have not named because of his age, was issued a citation for assault after he admitted to punching his opponent at Oak Park River Forest High School on April 8, the Oak Park Police Department confirmed to Fox News Digital on Friday.
Spenser Mango’s shoes are seen on the mat in retirement after losing his Greco-Roman 59 kg semifinal match to Jesse Thielke during day 1 of the Olympic Team Wrestling Trials at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on April 9, 2016 in Iowa City, Iowa. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
The victim, who is also 14, has not been identified by authorities either.
ILLINOIS YOUTH WRESTLER SUCKER PUNCHES OPPONENT AFTER LOSING MATCH, POLICE LAUNCH PROBE
CBS Chicago reported that the suspect attacked his opponent out of frustration after losing the match. Police told the suspect and his family were cooperating with their investigation.
The incident took place at the 2023 Beat the Streets Developmental FS Tournament. The two athletes were competing in the final round of their category.
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The victim won the match 14-2, but when the referee invited the two players to shake hands at the center of the mat, the suspect struck his unsuspecting opponent directly in the face.
Parents rushed to the aide of the injured athlete as the referee ushered the aggressor off the mat.
Gable Steveson of the Minnesota Golden Gophers leaves his shoes on the mat following his win over Cohlton Schultz of the Arizona State Sun Devils in the 285-pound final match during the Division I Mens Wrestling Championship held at Little Caesars Arena on March 19, 2022 in Detroit. (Jay LaPrete/NCAA Photos/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
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“We are very disappointed that this happened at one of our tournaments, which are meant to provide young people with opportunities to grow and compete in a positive, safe environment,” tournament director Mike Powell told CBS Chicago.
“We are relieved to know that the young man injured is recovering, and we have taken the necessary actions to let the authorities determine next steps.”
Police say the suspect is due in court next month.
