Takedown Report

Legendary Coach J Robinson Passes Away at 79

The wrestling community lost one of its all-time greats. J Robinson, a National Wrestling Hall of Fame Distinguished Member, passed away on March 29 at the age of 79.
A 1972 Greco-Roman Olympian, three-time Dan Gable Coach of the Year (including twice by WIN Magazine), and proud Army Ranger veteran, Robinson built Minnesota into a national powerhouse — winning three team titles, developing 65 All-Americans and 14 individual national champions over three decades.
His .753 winning percentage and 440 dual-meet victories both stand as the best marks in Minnesota wrestling history.
Off the mat, his J Robinson Intensive Camps trained over 60,000 wrestlers across more than four decades, becoming the largest camp system in the country.

“On behalf of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Board of Governors and staff, I want to extend our sincere sympathies to J’s wife, Sue, his family, friends and the thousands of wrestlers and coaches across the country whose lives were shaped by his influence, friendship, mentorship and leadership,” said Lee Roy Smith, Executive Director of the NWHOF. “A legendary Olympic wrestler, esteemed coach, and proud Army Ranger veteran, J’s impact on wrestling began in the 1960s and spanned more than seven decades. Throughout his remarkable career, he built a legacy defined by an unwavering work ethic, visionary leadership, and a lifelong commitment to elevating the sport and inspiring generations of athletes.”
A tenacious competitor, championship coach, innovative leader and a driving force in the sport of wrestling, Robinson’s competitive spirit and “give-it-your-all” attitude emerged during his days as a prep wrestler in California. He won SDIF titles in 1963 and 1964 and was named Outstanding Wrestler in 1964. His flair for international competition and being on the “cutting edge of the sport” began when he became a member of the inaugural California International Team. Competing in Japan, the pioneer team paved the way for young wrestlers of the future.
In the next years, Robinson made his mark in not just one style of wrestling, but three. He honed his collegiate style skills under the instruction of the legendary coach Myron Roderick at Oklahoma State University. Shifting his focus to the international arena, he was a member of two World teams, finishing fourth in 1970 and fifth in 1971. He competed as a member of the 1972 Greco-Roman Olympic Team and was named to WIN Magazine’s All-Olympic Team of the Century. During this time, he won four national titles: … more at … https://www.win-magazine.com/2026/04/03/legendary-coach-j-robinson-passes-away-at-79/

April 3, 2026 - Posted by The TakeDown Report | Uncategorized | sports, wrestling