All-American wrestler transfers away from Mizzou to be closer to home

Three-time All-American wrestler Willie Miklus is transferring to Iowa State in order to be closer to his family. The former MU wrestler has one more year of collegiate eligibility.

Miklus’ father has ALS, and he wants to be able to spend more time with him. Miklus is from Altoona, Iowa, which is roughly 30 minutes from Iowa State’s campus.

“He was super stoked when I told him I was going to be back and that excitement hasn’t really left,” Miklus said in a phone interview with ABC 17 News. “I’m super happy with the decision. I hope that people understand why.”

Miklus said he still loves Mizzou, and he is very appreciative of his time in Columbia. He said MU wrestling coach Brian Smith could not have been more understanding of his situation.

“I loved being a Tiger, and I will continue to love Mizzou.”

You can listen to our full conversation with Miklus in the web extra below.