Wrestler Spotlight – Manuel Villalobos

Manuel Villalobos – Birmingham HS

Welcome to the first edition of “Wrestler Spotlight.” We will publish one every week to give a wrestling description of a wrestler who is a candidate to be All-State. This week’s wrestler is a senior from the number one ranked team in the Los Angeles City Section, Manuel Villalobos. This wrestler is making some noise and have garner some attention in the state. This individual may not always be ranked very high in the state but has made us take notice of him.

Villalobos is wrestling varsity for the first time and is becoming a serious contender to become a state medal winner come March. He is currently ranked number 10 in state, but looks to improve on that. He has won the Newbury Park, West Coast Classic, Sam De John and The Dick Comly Invitational. He has also medaled at the Battle for the Belt and the Mission San Jose Tournament.

Villalobos is an exciting wrestler to watch every time he steps on the mat. He’s not your typical upper weight wrestler who just hangs on the lead once he obtains it. He goes after his opponents with his double leg attacks, that he uses to take down his opponents. He is also a good leg rider throwing the legs whenever he is working on top.

Villalobos it’s currently coached by former North Coast Section, State Champion and former college wrestler for Fresno State, Jim Medeiros.

Notable Wins by Villalobos: Ken Vergini (Simi Valley), Hexton Coronado (Clovis), Daniel Gonzalez (Temescal Canyon), Raul Rocha (Central), Graham Grant (Saratoga).