History is coming to the Little Rock Air Force Base For the first time in program history -- and for the first time ever in the state of Arkansas -- Trojan Wrestling will take on Air Force in a historic dual at Little Rock Air Force Base on Friday, November 20.
This one-of-a-kind event will bring Trojan Wrestling into an extraordinary setting for an unforgettable night of wrestling, bringing together two nationally ranked programs and some of the nation’s best wrestlers for a matchup unlike anything Little Rock has hosted before.
“Hosting this event was an easy decision,” said Col. Bret Echard, 19th Airlift Wing commander. “Bringing together our local athletes and Air Force academy cadets gives us a unique opportunity to open our gates, strengthen the bonds with our community, and celebrate the resilience, teamwork, and competitive spirit that unite us.” Trojan Director of Athletics Frank M. Cuervo shared his enthusiasm for the partnership and expressed gratitude to the Little Rock AFB for opening their doors to the unique event.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Little Rock Air Force Base to bring this historic event to life,” said Cuervo. “It is an opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the relationship between UA Little Rock and the men and women who serve our country, while showcasing two outstanding wrestling programs in an extraordinary setting. We are grateful to Colonel Echard and his team for their partnership and willingness to open the base to our student-athletes, fans, and community. We look forward to an unforgettable night.” The historic partnership with the Little Rock AFB will elevate an already marquee Pac-12 matchup, as the Trojans and Falcons are both entering this year’s campaign ranked among the nation’s best. The dual will also feature two NCAA All-Americans, with Little Rock’s Stephen Little and Air Force’s Carter Nogle.
“This really is an incredible opportunity,” said Trojan Wrestling Head Coach Neil Erisman. “We are not just honoring those who serve, but we are also honoring those we are competing against. While we are all striving for victory on the mat, these are the same people who will be protecting our freedom. This is a great way to engage with the Central Arkansas community and surrounding areas while competing on a unique stage.” The night will carry even greater significance for Little, who will compete in his final season as a Trojan. The decorated Little Rock standout enters the season following a remarkable 2026 campaign in which he finished third at the NCAA Championships, earning his third consecutive All-America honor and becoming the most decorated individual student-athlete in Trojan history.
“You see other schools hosting sporting events in unique venues, whether in a football stadium or an amphitheater, so it’s amazing to have an opportunity like this of our own,” said Little.
With a historic venue, nationally ranked programs, and some of the sport’s premier talent, the dual promises to be a can’t-miss night for Trojan fans, wrestling fans, and the entire community.
Limited tickets will be available for purchase, with additional event details to be announced soon.
Fans are encouraged to follow Little Rock Wrestling for all updates and the latest information at lrtrojans.com and on social media at @littlerockwres.