Ahead of Final X, we caught up with Kyle Dake to talk about training, preparation, and what continues to fuel his pursuit of excellence at the highest levels of the sport. As one of the most accomplished and respected athletes in wrestling, Dake continues to evolve year after year while competing against the best talent in the world. From sharpening his approach during this training cycle to reflecting on the changing landscape of international wrestling, Dake shared insight into the mindset, discipline, and competitive edge that continue to define his career.
Q: What’s been the biggest adjustment in this training cycle compared to previous Final X appearances?
Kyle Dake: Every year as Final X approaches has a different feel to it, whether it be a new kid coming up, a different weight class, or different life events happening outside the sport — everything’s always changing. That’s what makes it fun and keeps you engaged. Nothing’s ever really the same, and there’s always some unique aspect of the process that you have to figure out and adapt to as an athlete.
Q: What trends or attributes are you seeing from the current generation of world-level wrestlers that stand out to you the most?
Kyle Dake: A lot of these young guys are really slick technically. They’re crafty with how they create and win new positions, and they’re constantly finding different ways to score. Wrestling, like all sports, continues to evolve. The newer generation builds off the foundation that the older generation laid, so every wave of athletes comes in a little more advanced and a little more creative in certain areas.
Q: How do you balance staying explosive offensively while also wrestling smarter and more calculated?
Kyle Dake: There’s definitely a fine balance between being super explosive and high flying while also being strong tactically and staying in good position. A lot of it depends on the mindset you’re competing with and understanding who you are as a wrestler. The most important thing is to stay aligned with who you are as a person and competitor. If you’re a high-flying, let-it-fly type of guy, wrestle that way and trust it — don’t try to wrestle tight. But if you’re naturally more reserved and positional, then hold great position and be stingy when you can.
Q: What part of your game do you feel is peaking right now heading into Final X?
Kyle Dake: I think one of the biggest differences for me this year is perspective. My faith has become much stronger, and realizing my place in this world has allowed me to wrestle with a lot more freedom and peace of mind. Putting things into that perspective has helped me go out there, toe the line, and compete with a clearer mindset.
Q: When you step on the mat at Final X, what motivates you now compared to earlier in your career?
Kyle Dake: In the past, I felt like I had a lot to prove. I wanted to be the best in the world, and I believed that I was. Now that I’ve climbed that mountain and accomplished many of the goals I set for myself, the motivation is different. I’m doing it because I truly love competing, I love wrestling, and I believe this is what God called me to do.
This will be Dake’s sixth Final X appearance since the event series began in 2018. As it approaches once again, Kyle Dake enters this year’s event with the same elite mindset and competitive drive that have defined one of the most accomplished careers in American wrestling. While the challenges, opponents, and circumstances may continue to evolve from year to year, Dake’s focus on growth, preparation, and purpose remains constant. With experience, perspective, and passion fueling this next chapter, he looks ready once again to test himself against the very best on wrestling’s biggest stage.
Stay tuned with Spartan Combat for more exclusive interviews, athlete features, and behind-the-scenes coverage as we continue following Kyle Dake’s journey through Final X and beyond.
