New Jersey state wrestling champion Anthony Knox Jr. and his father, Anthony Knox Sr., have received sentences related to their involvement in a brawl that occurred at last year’s regional tournament.
The two were initially charged with simple assault following the incident at Collingswood High School on February 22, 2025. However, they reached a plea deal, which saw Knox Jr.’s charge lowered to disorderly conduct. Knox Sr.’s charges were similarly reduced to disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace.
The court also sentenced Knox Jr. to one year of probation, indicating that if he adheres to the terms of his suspended sentence, the charges will eventually be dismissed. His father, a former MMA fighter, must pay a fine of $1,000. Knox Sr. expressed regret over the situation, calling it a “really, really unfortunate incident.”
Both individuals were detained after a chaotic scene unfolded at the high school event. Knox Jr. is currently competing for his fourth consecutive New Jersey state title in his division, and has already won a match against St. John Vianney High School.
A video surfaced on social media showing Knox Jr. running into the bleachers to join the brawl. Court documents reveal that he punched someone in the opposing team’s area, leading to injuries that were detailed in the reports.
Though disqualified by the New Jersey High School Athletic Association (NJSIAA), Judge Patrick Bartels issued a temporary restraining order on the suspension, allowing Knox Jr. to compete in the Region 7 tournament. In a statement explaining his actions, Knox Jr. mentioned that he felt compelled to intervene after witnessing his father being attacked.
During the court proceedings, Knox Jr. described the hostile environment at the tournament, explaining how insults directed at him and his teammates escalated tensions. He recounted seeing his father confronted and, feeling protective, ran to help him amidst what he described as an overwhelming crowd.
The family also addressed the media, with Knox Sr. sharing how “racial slurs” were hurled at the athletes. He condemned the actions of those targeting his family and expressed their frustrations about the incident.
Despite the legal entanglements surrounding him, Knox Jr. was ranked nationally as a top 126-pound wrestler last season. Reports suggest his performance was still strong enough to secure a $200,000 annual NIL contract.
