2023 NCAA Watch Party: Penn State vs Wisconsin & Cornell vs VA Tech

#9 Sam Latona Knocks Off #3 Vito Arujau

#9 Sam Latona Knocks Off #3 Vito Arujau

Virginia Tech's 9th ranked Sam Latona took out #3 Vito Arujau in a CKLV rematch.

Jan 7, 2023 by David Bray
#9 Sam Latona Knocks Off #3 Vito Arujau

Virginia Tech's 9th ranked 133-pounder, Sam Latona, just pulled off the biggest win of his season. The 16-4 All-American took out Cornell's #3 Vito Arujau in a rematch of this season's Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational semifinals.

In Arujau and Latona's first meeting, Vito used a first-period feet-to-back move to put the contest out of reach. He ultimately won the bout 6-1. In the rematch, Latona worked for a high crotch in the opening period which ended up being enough for a 3-2 decision.

Sam Latona's first-period takedown against Vito Arujau


Latona is in his first season at 133 lbs after competing at 125 lbs for the previous three years. His victory over Arujau announces him as a serious contender for a top spot on the NCAA podium in March.