Trigger Warning: This article discusses the topic of sexual assault and harassment
Cal State Bakersfield’s wrestling program is abuzz, both negative and positive, following the news of the high-profile transfer, AJ Ferrari.
Ferrari is a two-time NCAA wrestling champion with an impressive, and questionable, background that has the campus curious about his comeback.
“In August 2022, Ferrari was arrested and charged with one felony count of sexual battery stemming from a July 2, 2022, incident at the home of a Stillwater female who accused him of performing unwanted sexual acts,” wrote The Oklahoman.
After she received personal attacks on social media, harassment, blame and threats to her career, with the consultation of her family, she decided to drop the case after a 15-month ordeal according to her district attorney Laura Austin Thomas. Less than two weeks after the occurrence, OSU announced Ferrari was no longer a part of the wrestling team.
“The university has been made aware of an alleged off-campus sexual assault involving a student. We support the investigation underway by the Stillwater Police Department, and we will cooperate with them,” a statement from the university said. “These are serious allegations, and we have processes in place to address any violations of OSU policy,” said a spokesperson for Oklahoma State to NBC News.
During a match at the Soldier Salute Tournament in Iowa in Dec. 2023. Ferrari competed as an unattached athlete and was disqualified after throwing a punch during a match, doing the splits, and making provocative gestures towards the crowd.
CSUB grants Ferrari a new opportunity
Ferrari is from Allen, Texas and entered the colligate wrestling scene at 197-pounds, determination and remarkable talent at the start of 2021. Showcasing his skills with a record of 10-0 he established himself as a top competitor.
AJ Ferrari announced his commitment to CSUB on Aug. 23, marking the beginning of his wrestling career for the school.
“We empower all our coaches to recruit the top talent in their respective sports to Bakersfield, and AJ’s recruitment was no different,” wrote Sarah Tuohy, Associate Athletics Director for Development at CSUB.
Given his past legal challenges and dismissal from OSU, Tuohy wrote that, “AJ Ferrari entered the transfer portal while he was at Oklahoma State at the conclusion of the 21-22 season. The decision to leave OSU was not because of any disciplinary issues.”
However, this statement complicates as OSU’s head coach, John Smith’s announcement on July 14, 2022, that he had dismissed Ferrari from the program shortly after a sexual assault incident became known. Ferrari entered the transfer portal just six days later, on July 20, 2022. This timeline has led to curiosity regarding the circumstances of Ferrari’s departure and what it means for his future at CSUB.
Students at CSUB who have classes with Ferrari have also raised some concerns, speaking up about their own discomfort of having classes with the fellow Roadrunner.
“As a student I feel like he’s disgusting” said an anonymous CSUB student. “Just knowing the things he’s done and like him just getting away with it with like a slap on his wrist, just because he’s an athlete. So what he can throw someone?… that doesn’t make anyone special.”
The student said that although Ferrari didn’t get charged with anything, they don’t think the athletics department should have brought him to CSUB.
“What type of image is that serving? That we take anyone?” said the student.
CSUB athletics is excited for Ferrari and all of the other additions that are being added to the wrestling roster in order to continue the strong legacy of the CSUB wrestling team.
Tuohy highlighted CSUB’s wrestling legacy, noting that the program has produced 132 All-Americans and 18 Olympians, among other accolades.
Ferrari’s recent transfer to CSUB comes at a crucial time for the wrestling program, which is eager to bounce back after a disappointing season (0-12). Last year, CSUB missed out on a NCAA Championship appearance for the first time in 50 years, a significant setback for a program known for its storied history and competitive spirit.
“As a NCAA Division I National Champion, AJ has already proven he has the talent, dedication, and commitment to win at the highest level. Our wrestling program prides itself on having what we call ‘Bakersfield Grit,’ and that is a quality all our wrestlers we recruit embody,” wrote Tuohy.
Ferrari’s addition is seen as a potential game-changer, as the NCAA champion aims to help restore the team’s legacy and guide them back to national prominence. With high hopes riding on his back, the Roadrunners are determined to reclaim their place among the elite in collegiate wrestling.
AJ Ferrari’s transfer is not just a new chapter in his wrestling career; it is a pivotal moment for CSUB wrestling, signaling its ambition to attract top-tier talent. With the season approaching, the team is gearing up and all eyes are on Ferrari, will his potential lead the Roadrunners to new heights?
CSUB’s athletics department declined an interview request with Ferrari.
