This transfer portal cycle has brought its biggest surprise for Virginia Tech so far as 2025 ACC champion wrestler Rafael Hipolito has entered the transfer portal.
Hipolito leaves Blacksburg after a standout redshirt freshman season during which he won the 157-pound title at the 2025 ACC Championships while also earning the #4 at the 2025 NCAA Championships. He went 17-5 and was consistently in the top 10 of the rankings at 157 before a disappointing end at the NCAAs where he went a surprising 1-2.
Hipolito’s departure is a surprise to most though it does seem like it may not have been as big of a shock to those inside the program. He will have three years of eligibility remaining and instantly becomes the top available wrestler in the portal.
With Hipolito’s departure, the Hokies have a clear replacement in Maryland transfer Ethen Miller, who was the #1 seed at the Big 10 Championships this past season. There was some speculation of Miller possibly moving to 165 when he initially committed to VT, but Hipolito’s departure means Miller will remain at 157 with Mac Church projected for now to retain his starting spot at 165. I do expect 165 will be open for a freshman to go earn it and surpass Church if someone is ready to do just that.
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