CHANTILLY, Virginia – Reigning World champion Trent Hidlay grabbed the early series lead in the 2026 Final X, presented by Kerberos Capital Management, 92 kg men’s freestyle best-of-three series against Michael Macchiavello with a 2-1 decision on Saturday afternoon at Freedom High School.
In a battle between two North Carolina State alums, Hidlay grabbed the early 1-0 lead after forcing Macchiavello out of the circle. Hidlay then grabbed a 2-0 advantage with an activity time point.
Just before the opening three minutes came to an end, Hidlay was put on the activity clock, but he kept the 2-0 lead as time expired for the break.
To start the second half of the match, Hidlay was put on the activity clock for the second time. Hidlay was unable to score while on the clock, and Macchiavello made the score 2-1 with 1:49 left in the match.
Macchiavello tried to mount a late rally to tie the contest or take the lead, but he fell short, and Hidlay took the first match 2-1.
Hidlay is now 2-0 against Macchiavello following a 3-3 victory at the 2026 Zagreb Open Rankings Series in February.
The second match in the best-of-three series takes place at 3 p.m. ET. If necessary, the winner-take-all third bout will take place 30 minutes after the conclusion of round two.
The winner of the best-of-three series earns a spot on the 2026 U.S. Senior World Team and will represent Team USA at the 2026 Senior World Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Live video for the final two rounds and a replay of round one is available on FloWrestling. Live results are available on USA Bracketing.
At Chantilly, Virginia, June 13
Men’s Freestyle Best-of-Three Series
92 kg – Trent Hidlay (Raleigh, N.C./Wolfpack WC/Titan Mercury WC) leads Michael Macchiavello (Northampton, Pa./Lehigh Valley Wrestling RTC/Titan Mercury WC), one match to none
Round 1 – Hidlay dec. Macchiavello, 2-1
Round 2 – 3 p.m. ET
Round 3 – 30 minutes after Round 2 (if needed)
