The Penn State youngster is proving that greatness runs deep in Minnesota wrestling. The redshirt freshman has been unstoppable this season, dominating the mat and racking up accolades along the way. There’s gotta be something in you for a wrestler of Gable Steveson’s status to name you his successor. Looking at his career graph, this Minnesota wrestling star is just getting started and doesn’t intend to stop anytime soon.McEnelly’s relentless drive has translated into excellence on the mat, and the accolades keep rolling in. For the third time this season, he has been named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week, cementing his status as one of the conference’s brightest young stars. His latest honor comes after a statement victory over Iowa’s Gabe Arnold, a battle that put his grit and composure on full display. In a tense matchup, McEnelly extended his undefeated streak to 18-0 this season and 33-0 overall. Is it sheer skill that propels his performance? or is it his enviable work ethic? It may be both, but it’s also something else, and this third factor involves one of the country’s most outstanding wrestlers– Gable Steveson.The two-time NCAA heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist has long been the standard for Minnesota wrestling. It’s not just the 24-year-old’s dominance on the mat that’s making an impact. It’s his prudence too! A simple yet powerful piece of advice from the wrestling icon has fueled the four-time Minnesota state high school champion Max McEnelly’s mindset, pushing him to embrace every challenge head-on.As Minnesota wrestling looks ahead, Gable Steveson has a powerful message for his teammate Max McEnelly. “Max, I mean, just how impressive is he? Man, he’s getting it done; he’s got a long way to go, but I think if he keeps putting pieces together, he’s going to be what Minnesota needs after me. Someone’s got to step up and be that face, and I think he’s got it in him.” Beyond personal success, he also highlights the importance of team culture and inspiring younger wrestlers to rise to the challenge. The Olympic champion recognizes McEnelly’s talent. The journey to becoming the face of the program is just beginning!Gable Steveson’s influence is shaping the next generation, as his teammate Max McEnelly continues to rise.“Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity”—Max McEnelly on learning from Gable StevesonSharing his thoughts to Star Tribune on training alongside an all-time great, McEnelly acknowledges the immense value of simply being in Steveson’s presence. “You don’t even have to wrestle with him to learn from him. You can learn so much from him by just watching him every single day in practice and just watching how he goes about his business,” he explained. For the freshman, this isn’t just an ordinary experience—it’s a rare privilege to train with one of the world’s best. And he’s making the most of it. That mindset was on full display in his dominant performance against Ohio, where he controlled the match from start to finish.McEnelly’s season has been nothing short of remarkable. His latest statement came in a commanding 15-5 major decision over Ryder Rogotzke of No. 4 Ohio State. With the dual meet hanging in the balance, McEnelly thrived under pressure, delivering the decisive win that sealed a 20-17 victory for the Gophers. But it wasn’t just his wrestling that made headlines—it was his presence. Fired up after the match, he boldly flashed an “O” toward the Buckeye crowd, a clear message that his victories aren’t just about numbers.McEnelly isn’t just winning—he’s making sure everyone knows he has arrived. The question is that can he continue this dominant run and establish himself as the true successor to Gable Steveson? What do you think? Let us know in the comments.The post Inspired by Gable Steveson Minnesota Gophers Star Matches Penn State Youngster With Latest Honor appeared first on EssentiallySports.