The Open Mat

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Photo: Sam Janicki

UTC adds two-time NCAA qualifier Chittum

Chattanooga Sports Information
Aug 22

First Look
Coach Kyle Ruschell and his staff remade the Chattanooga Mocs wrestling roster over the summer with five strong additions to the lineup via the transfer portal. The latest rivals them all for potential impact as he announced the transfer of Cody Chittum this week. Chittum, a native of Cleveland, Tenn., comes home with an impressive resume while adding an impact at a key position.

First Take
"Cody is a game-changer. His drive and passion for the sport are unmatched. We're thrilled to welcome him back to Tennessee and to our wrestling family." – Coach Kyle Ruschell on the Chittum addition

The Breakdown

  • Chittum joins Cooper Flynn (Minnesota), Hunter Mason (Virginia Tech), Billy Meiszner (Kent State), Carter Neves (Ohio State) and Mason Reiniche (Oregon State).
  • Flynn (Seymour), Mason (Greeneville) and Reiniche (Chattanooga) are also transferring to their home state.
  • Chittum had a 35-15 record at Iowa State (20-3 dual) qualifying for the 2024 and 2025 NCAA Championships.
  • Chittum reached the round of 16 in 2025 falling two matches shy of All-America status.
  • He was runner-up at the 2024 Big XII Championships.
  • He potentially replaces fellow NCAA Qualifier Noah Castillo in the lineup after the latter's graduation.
  • Chittum had a 56.3 percent bonus point rate in 2025 and posted a 10-1 dual mark.
  • FloWrestling's No. 1 pound-for-pound recruit in the class of 2022.
  • He has two years of eligibility remaining.

    Final Thoughts
    "Cody is more than a talented competitor. His resilience, drive and dedication will make our room better as well as the impact he can have on our lineup. Welcoming him back to Tennessee is special for us because we are always looking to build on the impact the sport has on our home state." – Coach Ruschell