
LIGHT BEER
In a highly anticipated clash between one of the sport’s all-time greats and one of its brightest young stars, Kyle Dake reminded everyone exactly who he is. With a dominant showing capped by a massive four-point throw, Dake defeated Dean Hamiti Jr. in convincing fashion at RAF01.
There was plenty of talk before the match—some wondering if Hamiti’s rise would challenge the veteran. But Dake didn’t just shut that down. He sent a message.
The action started with pace, and Dake wasted no time getting to his attacks. He shot in deep and, true to form, finished with force. Once he locks in, Dake doesn’t hesitate—he just sends it.
That approach paid off big when he launched Hamiti for a monster four-point throw that brought the crowd to its feet. It was vintage Dake. Power, timing and zero hesitation.
That single moment changed the tone of the match—and made it clear who was in control.
To Hamiti’s credit, he didn’t back down. He continued pressing forward, looking for opportunities, and showed glimpses of the athleticism that’s made him one of the top young names in the country.
But Dake’s positioning and experience were too much. He stayed composed through Hamiti’s motion and made sure the match stayed on his terms. There were no scrambles, no momentum swings—just elite control and steady pressure from one of the best to ever do it.
If there were any doubts about where Dake stands in the current freestyle hierarchy, they were answered. He’s still here. Still explosive. Still a serious contender to make another Olympic run.
With his eyes now locked on Los Angeles 2028, Dake used RAF01 to reassert his presence and remind fans why he’s been at the top of the sport for more than a decade.
Despite the loss, Hamiti showed he belongs on big stages like this. He didn’t shy away from the moment, and his tools are undeniable. He’s young, dangerous and surrounded by elite minds in Stillwater under head coach David Taylor.
This was a learning moment—but not a setback. Hamiti will be in the mix for U.S. National Team spots for years to come.