Benitez Claims Title as Bulldogs Open 2026 at Mat Cat Open
MCMINNVILLE, Ore. – January 4, 2026
The Fresno State NCWA Wrestling team kicked off the 2026 portion of its season at the Mat Cat Open, a tournament that provided a change of scenery and a new set of challenges as the Bulldogs traveled north to Oregon to face unfamiliar opponents across the West Coast.
For junior Emmanuel Plascencia, the trip offered a chance to test himself against new competition.
“It was a nice change of scenery coming up to Oregon and wrestling guys we don’t normally see,” Plascencia said.
On the women’s side, Jocelynn Benitez delivered the performance of the day, capturing the 103-pound championship in her first-ever freestyle tournament. Benitez went a perfect 5-0 on the day, dominating a field that included NAIA, NCAA, and NCWA competition.
Benitez echoed the sentiment of facing new opponents, noting the value of seeing different styles early in the season.
MEN’S RECAP
149 lbs – Emmanuel Plascencia
Plascencia competed up a weight at 149 pounds and opened the tournament with a bye before earning a pinfall victory in the round of 16. He was pinned in the quarterfinals before dropping a competitive 16–8 decision in the consolation rounds. Wrestling above his usual weight, Plascencia felt the size and strength difference late in matches.
“I’ll definitely be coming back down to 141s,” Plascencia said. “The guys felt really strong.”
285 lbs – John Pegorari
Pegorari faced a tough heavyweight draw, dropping both matches against junior college and unattached competition. The matches provided valuable mat time as Pegorari continues to develop against experienced heavyweight opponents.
WOMEN’S RECAP
103 lbs – Jocelynn Benitez (Champion)
Benitez put together a dominant tournament, recording five straight victories to claim the Mat Cat Open title. She defeated opponents from Linfield, Pacific, Southern Oregon, and Western Washington, controlling the pace throughout the day. The championship marked a strong debut in freestyle competition for the Bulldog standout.
138 lbs – Lilian Busnardo
Busnardo competed against a challenging bracket, facing experienced opponents from Pacific and unattached entries. The day served as a valuable learning experience as she continues to gain mat time early in the season.
138 lbs – Delilah Lozano
Lozano wrestled twice against Southern Oregon opponents, gaining exposure to new styles and competition. The matches provided important experience as she continues her development.
145 lbs – Gabriela Flores
Flores wrestled a full slate of matches, earning a victory over Southern Oregon while facing opponents from Linfield, Pacific, and unattached competition. Her day showcased persistence and toughness in one of the tournament’s deeper weight classes.
