The Iowa State wrestling program continues to strengthen its national title hopes with the addition of 2025 NCAA All-American Vinny Zerban, who is transferring from the University of Northern Colorado to join the Cyclones for the upcoming season.
A Breakout Season at Northern Colorado
Zerban made headlines this past season with a breakout performance at the 2025 NCAA Championships, placing 6th at 157 pounds and earning his first All-American honors. His run included impressive wins over Matt Bianchi, Brandon Cannon, Chase Saldate, and Blake Saito.
The Illinois native capped off the year with a 22-7 record and won the Big 12 title at 157 pounds, becoming the first wrestler from Northern Colorado to win a Big 12 championship. He also won the 2024 Southern Scuffle and was a three-time NCAA qualifier during his time at UNC.
Why the Move?
Zerban’s decision to transfer comes after the departure of head coach Troy Nickerson, who left Northern Colorado to take the head coaching job at Army West Point. Zerban is now the third wrestler from UNC to transfer to Iowa State in recent weeks, joining fellow All-American Stevo Poulin and teammate Andrew Donahue.
Impact on the Cyclones
Zerban is expected to immediately contend for the starting spot at 157 pounds, a weight vacated by Cody Chittum, who transferred to Ohio State. He may face internal competition from Paniro Johnson, but many expect Zerban to emerge as the frontrunner given his recent success.
He joins a Cyclone squad that’s quickly becoming one of the most talent-loaded rosters in the country. Recent additions include Stevo Poulin (125) and four-time All-American Rocky Elam (197).
Projected 2025–26 Iowa State Lineup
| Weight Class | Projected Starter |
|---|---|
| 125 lbs | Stevo Poulin |
| 133 lbs | Evan Frost |
| 141 lbs | Jacob Frost |
| 149 lbs | Anthony Echemendia / Paniro Johnson |
| 157 lbs | Vinny Zerban / Paniro Johnson |
| 165 lbs | Aiden Riggins |
| 174 lbs | MJ Gaitan |
| 184 lbs | Isaac Dean |
| 197 lbs | Rocky Elam |
| 285 lbs | Yonger Bastida |
With Zerban and other key transfers joining the program, Iowa State is positioning itself as a legitimate contender for the 2026 NCAA Wrestling Championships.
What’s Next for Zerban?
Zerban announced his transfer on Instagram with a simple caption:
“Next stop… 🐝”
Now headed to Ames, Zerban brings leadership, postseason experience, and a championship mindset. Fans can expect him to play a pivotal role in what could be a historic season for Cyclone Wrestling.
