Ed Ruth Male
amateur wrestler, mixed martial arts fighter
October 21, 1990
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States0
0 likesOctober 21, 2026
355 days away134
Updated just nowVideo
Ed Ruth is an American wrestler and mixed martial artist who rose to prominence through his outstanding collegiate wrestling career at Penn State University. Born on October 21, 1990, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States, Ruth became one of the most dominant NCAA wrestlers of his era. Under the guidance of head coach Cael Sanderson, he earned national recognition for his strength, technique, and competitive spirit.
During his collegiate career, Ed Ruth captured three NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships (2012, 2013, and 2014) and became a four-time All-American. Competing at 174 and 184 pounds, he played a key role in Penn State's rise as a powerhouse in college wrestling. His achievements earned him numerous honors, including the Dan Hodge Trophy finalist distinction, often referred to as the Heisman Trophy of wrestling.
After his decorated amateur wrestling career, Ruth transitioned to mixed martial arts, signing with Bellator MMA in 2015. Competing in the welterweight division, he displayed strong grappling and striking skills, achieving notable victories and building a reputation as a disciplined and versatile athlete. Beyond his competition career, Ed Ruth has contributed to the sport as a mentor and coach, inspiring young wrestlers and fighters to pursue excellence. His journey from NCAA champion to professional MMA fighter underscores his lasting influence in American combat sports.
Learn more about Ed Ruth, their achievements, background, and career highlights - updated regularly on Khandro.net.
More about Ed Ruth
- Three-time NCAA Division I Wrestling Champion (2012, 2013, 2014)
- Four-time NCAA All-American (2011–2014)
- Member of Penn State Wrestling Team under coach Cael Sanderson (2010–2014)
- Bellator MMA Debut Victory (2016)
- Bellator Welterweight Grand Prix Competitor (2018)
- Big Ten Conference Wrestling Champion (2012–2014)
- Dan Hodge Trophy Finalist (2013)
- USA Wrestling National Team Member (post-collegiate)
- Penn State Team NCAA Championships Contributor (2012–2014)
- Transition to Professional MMA with Bellator (2015)
Latest news about Ed Ruth
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Flowrestling
Ed Ruth Selected to Flowrestling All-Quarter Century Team at 184 lbs
On 2025-07-24, Flowrestling announced that Ed Ruth was selected to the All-Quarter Century Team at 184 pounds, recognizing him among the best wrestlers of the last 25 years. He narrowly won the vote to earn the first-team spot, adding further prestige to his collegiate legacy.
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Instagram / FloWrestling
"Your Top 184-Pounder of the Quarter-Century Is Ed Ruth"
FloWrestling shared on Instagram that Ed Ruth was voted the top 184-pounder of the last quarter century, celebrating his dominance and legacy in collegiate wrestling. The post highlights his three NCAA titles and enduring recognition in the sport.
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Fighting Illini
Ed Ruth Joins University of Illinois Wrestling Staff as Assistant Coach
Ed Ruth has joined the University of Illinois as an assistant wrestling coach under head coach Mike Poeta. In this role, he brings his elite wrestling experience and competitive background to mentor collegiate wrestlers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ed Ruth
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Who is Ed Ruth?
Ed Ruth is an American wrestler and mixed martial arts fighter, best known for winning three NCAA wrestling championships at Penn State University and competing in Bellator MMA.
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When was Ed Ruth born?
Ed Ruth was born on October 21, 1990, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States.
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Where did Ed Ruth go to college?
Ed Ruth attended Penn State University, where he wrestled for the Nittany Lions and became one of the most decorated wrestlers in the school's history.
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How many NCAA titles did Ed Ruth win?
Ed Ruth won three NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, earning titles in 2012, 2013, and 2014.
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When did Ed Ruth start his MMA career?
Ed Ruth began his professional mixed martial arts career in 2016 after signing with Bellator MMA.
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What weight class did Ed Ruth compete in?
In wrestling, Ed Ruth competed primarily at 174 and 184 pounds. In MMA, he fought in the welterweight division.
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What is Ed Ruth known for?
Ed Ruth is known for his dominance in collegiate wrestling at Penn State, where he became a three-time NCAA champion, and for his successful transition to MMA in Bellator.
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Did Ed Ruth wrestle for Team USA?
Yes, Ed Ruth competed for USA Wrestling after his collegiate career, representing the United States in freestyle wrestling events.
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What is Ed Ruth's fighting style in MMA?
Ed Ruth's MMA fighting style combines his elite wrestling background with striking and grappling techniques, making him a balanced and strategic competitor.
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Has Ed Ruth retired from MMA?
As of recent reports, Ed Ruth has stepped back from active competition but remains involved in the sport as a coach and mentor.
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How many fights did Ed Ruth win in Bellator?
Ed Ruth achieved several notable victories in Bellator MMA, including wins by knockout and submission, showcasing his well-rounded combat skills.
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What awards has Ed Ruth won?
Ed Ruth has earned three NCAA titles, multiple Big Ten Championships, and recognition as a Dan Hodge Trophy finalist, one of wrestling's highest honors.
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When was Ed Ruth born?
Born on October 21, 1990
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What is Ed Ruth best known for?
Ed Ruth is known as a amateur wrestler, mixed martial arts fighter from United States.
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How old is Ed Ruth?
Ed Ruth is 35 years old.
