TIER ONE of Idaho prep wrestling: Ivan Ivanov Jr.

Photo: (Left to Right): Chris Owens, Ivan Ivanov Jr., Ivan Ivanov Sr., and Chris Caldwell after Ivan Jr. won a 16U Greco title and OW honors in Fargo.

Editor’s Note: This story appeared in WIN’s Volume 31 Issue 10, the Fargo/Final X Commemorative Edition. Click here or call 641-792-4436 to subscribe to WIN Magazine. Buy a Digital or Combo Subscription to get immediate digital access to the Fargo/Final X Commemorative Issue, or a Print Subscription to get WIN mailed to you (using Discount Code “Fargo”).

By Al Fontes

In my TIER ONE series, the next wrestler introduced is Ivan Ivanov Jr. of Eagle, Idaho. Hailing from a globally-recognized wrestling family, and the son of Olympian and World silver medalist Ivan Ivanov Sr., the founder of Suples, Ivan Jr. is forging his own path towards international Greco-Roman excellence, having already established himself among the nation’s top-tier young wrestlers.

Given his father’s role running the Suples business in Boise and coaching one of the country’s most respected Greco clubs, Ivan’s immersion in wrestling began as soon as he could walk. He made his competitive debut in the greater Boise metro by age five. Captivated by the experience, Ivan dedicated himself fully, earning numerous accolades from local, state, regional, and national-level kids’ competitions.

For Ivan, achieving success in wrestling, both domestically and internationally, demanded not only complete commitment to the sport itself but also the unwavering resolve to compete against the best. This lesson he learned early on from his father’s dedication, which propelled him to numerous victories across all levels of youth competition. Ivan’s competitions have spanned seven states, including Nevada, Colorado, Utah, Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Dakota, in addition to international events in Estonia, the Netherlands, Norway, Japan, India and his family’s native country, Bulgaria.

As Ivan progresses through age-group competitions, he finds himself consistently making adjustments to more advanced positioning and technique.

Having competed in Europe’s top-tier Greco tournaments, Ivan has made considerable progress in honing his wrestling technique and overall ability. For instance, Ivan has demonstrated remarkable prowess since 2023, consistently winning every major competition he has entered, including the Ivo Angelov International Cup in Pernik, Bulgaria, the Kolbotn Cup (Norway), and the prestigious Tallinn Open in Estonia. On top of that, he was also recognized as Outstanding Wrestler (OW) at the Ivo Angelov competition.

Ivan has consistently excelled in domestic wrestling, most notably securing his second consecutive 16U Greco-Roman Junior National title this past month in Fargo, N.D., and, remarkably, becoming the first to receive the OW award twice in the division. Achieving this feat was made even more challenging by a major hurdle: Ivan’s preparations for the Junior Nationals were unexpectedly interrupted by serious injuries three months before the competition, reducing his training window to a mere 30 days. Ivan found inspiration in Tommy Lasorda’s words during this time: “The difference between the impossible and possible lies in the person’s determination.”

Ivan’s swift accomplishments stem from a compelling mix of personal qualities — hard work, focus, and dedication to excellence — along with his receptiveness to the “Suples Training Systems” instilled by his father, his greatest influence.

The Suples Training Systems combine world-class wrestling instruction with unique equipment like the Bulgarian Bag and Suples throwing dummies to provide versatile functional training. The system aims to sharpen technical skills while building strength, conditioning, muscular endurance and isometric strength.

The Suples Wrestling Club cultivates elite athletes, evidenced by recent international medal victories at the Pan American and age-group world championships, including those earned by Jadon Skellenger (U15 World champion), Aden Attao (two-time U20 World bronze), Marissa Jimenez (Cadet Pan Am gold), and Devin Garcia, a rising youth multi-national champion.

To gain insight into Ivan’s wrestling career, goals, and interests beyond his training regimen, a recent connection was made with him at the Suples Training Facility. Ivan emphasized the significance of consistency, never missing a practice, and embracing the process throughout each level.

Fresh off his second Fargo championship and OW honors, Ivan is setting his sights on not only winning titles at the Junior level, but more importantly, earning a place on the U17 World Team and securing a gold medal. His ultimate ambition is to someday to become a world and Olympic champion in Greco-Roman wrestling.

Ivan thrives not only in wrestling but also in his personal life, cherishing family and friends and relaxing with hobbies such as golf and snowboarding.

The opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion with him about wrestling, life, hobbies, aspirations, and his long-term vision was valued. All the best is wished to him as he moves forward. His progress to the next level and beyond is anticipated. He is wholeheartedly encouraged to chase his world- and Olympic-gold aspirations, continue developing in the sport he loves, and embrace all future challenges. BELIEVE IN YOUR DREAMS!