By TANYA GARCIA | Lansing News Wire
HOLT, Mich. — At just 17 years old, Izrael Diego Canales is already making a name for himself in Holt High School’s storied wrestling program. Competing in the 125-pound weight class for the boys varsity team, the sophomore brings intensity, pride, and a deep sense of brotherhood to the mat.
His reason for starting wrestling? Sibling rivalry.
“I got into wrestling to beat my brother, Omar,” Canales said with a smile. But what began as a personal challenge quickly turned into a passion.
“The thing I love most about wrestling is the challenge,” he added.
Canales draws inspiration from some of the sport’s biggest names. His favorite wrestler is Spencer Lee, while he considers Cael Sanderson the greatest of all time. But it’s his older brother Omar — not a national star — who has played the most important role in shaping him into the wrestler he is today.
“My best memory is being accepted into Holt’s wrestling program,” he said. “It felt like I found my place.”
That sense of belonging carries through the team.
“What I like most is that we’re a family,” Canales said. “I definitely recommend wrestling. It builds a lot of character.”
Before a match, Canales gets in the zone by warming up and dancing to music. His favorite artist? Kanye West. His dream post-match meal? Orange chicken from Panda Express.
Beyond this season, his focus is on growth and progress. “My goal is to learn and improve,” he said. Long-term, he hopes to qualify for the state tournament before graduation.
Canales comes from a family deeply rooted in wrestling tradition. His focus remains on self-improvement as he works toward his ultimate goal—qualifying for the Michigan High School Wrestling Championships, known as “States,” held at Ford Field in Detroit.