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Trailblazing Wrestler Bobby Douglas Passes Away at 83

2/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bobby Douglas, pioneering Black American wrestler and Olympic competitor, died at age 83 on February 25, 2026.
He was the first Black American to compete in Olympic wrestling for the United States in 1964 and 1968.
Douglas coached at Iowa State University from 1993 to 2006, guiding 52 All-America performances, 10 NCAA titles, and retiring with over 400 dual wins.
Earlier, he led Arizona State to the 1988 NCAA championship.

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Story summary

Bobby Douglas, pioneering Black American wrestler and Olympic competitor, died at age 83 on February 25, 2026.
He was the first Black American to compete in Olympic wrestling for the United States in 1964 and 1968.
Douglas coached at Iowa State University from 1993 to 2006, guiding 52 All-America performances, 10 NCAA titles, and retiring with over 400 dual wins.
Earlier, he led Arizona State to the 1988 NCAA championship.