Illinois’ 2025 wrestling class expands with an exciting recruit — Co’ji Campbell. The four-time Wisconsin state champ joins the Illini after one of their most exciting seasons. Campbell will add some much-needed firepower in the opening weight category and give head coach Mike Poeta options. Campbell announced his commitment to the Illini on Instagram Tuesday.
Historic run
Campbell attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and made a name for himself there. He holds a 169-2 high school career record. Campbell is a serial winner who has ranked No. 1 in every weight category he’s wrestled in.
In his senior year, Campbell made history by being the only wrestler from Kenosha County to win three or more state championships since 1940. He’s now the 30th addition to an exclusive club of Wisconsin wrestlers with four or more state championships.
Winning mindset
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
Campbell went 54-0 this season to close out what has been a monumental high school journey. Although it may have seemed easy, a lot of sacrifices have gone into making him one of the best in the nation. The Kenosha wrestler battled asthma during his childhood, but that didn’t stop him from aiming towards the sky. Campbell’s father transformed his lifestyle and diet to ensure his son’s health. At five years old, Campbell was already training in his basement. A journey that started years ago has now culminated in him being a top-tier prospect.
Opening category firepower
Campbell will most likely wrestle in the 125-pound category for Illinois. He has the potential to rescue its worst weight category. Illinois went 1-12 in duals in the opening weight category this season. Illinois had to play catchup in almost every dual to recover the opening deficit, and hopefully, Campbell can help with that.
More importantly, the Illini might lose redshirt senior and 133-pound national champion Lucas Byrd. He played a vital role in holding together Illinois’ lineup. However, a top-tier recruit like Campbell sets Illinois up for the future.
