The future of California’s international wrestling presence was on full display last week at the 2026 U15 Pan American Team Qualifier. With a trip to Mexico City on the line, the Golden State’s most promising young prospects turned in dominant performances, culminating in two Californians officially joining Team USA.

The stakes for this event were uniquely high. Selection for the U15 Pan American Championships (held July 23-25) isn’t just about winning a single bracket; spots are awarded to the wrestlers with the highest combined point total across both the Greco-Roman and Freestyle disciplines.

The Champions: Two Spots Secured

California secured two individual titles in the Greco-Roman division, providing the necessary leverage for both athletes to clinch their spots on the Pan American roster after strong showings in Freestyle.

38 KG: Matthew Campos (Silvaback Wrestling Training)

Campos looked untouchable throughout the Greco-Roman bracket. His technical mastery, combined with his performance in the freestyle division, officially puts him in the driver’s seat as he prepares to represent the Red, White, and Blue at 38 kg.

68 KG: Xander Fronhofer (Beat the Streets Los Angeles)

Climbing to the top of the podium at 68 kilograms, Fronhofer made a massive statement for the BTSLA program. By securing his place on the Pan American team, he establishes himself as one of the premier middleweights in the country for this age group.

Podium Results: Deep Field of Contenders

Beyond the champions, California pushed several other wrestlers deep into the medal rounds, showcasing the state’s depth. Most notably at 68 kg, the finals were an all-California affair as Jessie Valenzuela (Rough House Wrestling) took 2nd place, falling only to Fronhofer in a hard-fought battle.

California U15 Greco Medalists:

Weight	Athlete (Affiliation)	Place
38 KG	Matthew Campos (Silvaback)	Champion
68 KG	Xander Fronhofer (BTSLA)	Champion
68 KG	Jessie Valenzuela (Rough House)	2nd Place
85 KG	Seregy Lyamin (Sacramento Bears)	4th Place
75 KG	Albert Bagdasarian (World Team TC)	7th Place

---

The Road to Mexico City

While the medals are a badge of honor, the ultimate prize is team selection. With Matthew Campos and Xander Fronhofer officially qualifying for the Greco-Roman team and securing their spots for the trip to Mexico, California is poised to have a strong contingent representing the United States this summer.

The Greco-Roman results proved to be the foundation for this success, proving that California’s youth are as versatile as they are dominant.

Photo courtesy of Israel Silva