Robert Edward Douglas

Robert Edward Douglas, a trailblazing American Olympic wrestler and one of the most influential figures in collegiate wrestling history, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 83. Douglas's remarkable career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark as both a decorated athlete and a transformative coach. His dedication to the sport broke barriers and inspired countless individuals, solidifying his legacy as a true pioneer.

Born in Bellaire, Ohio, Douglas rose from humble beginnings to achieve national and international acclaim. He was the first Black American to compete in the Olympics for wrestling in 1964, a significant milestone that paved the way for future generations. His competitive spirit earned him a fourth-place finish at the 1964 Tokyo Games and he later captained the U.S. Olympic freestyle team in 1968.

Douglas's prowess extended to the World Championships, where he secured a silver medal in 1966 and a bronze in 1970, the same year he was named the USA's outstanding wrestler. Transitioning seamlessly into coaching, he built powerhouse programs at Arizona State University and Iowa State University. At Arizona State, he led the Sun Devils to their first and only NCAA team national championship in 1988, a historic achievement for a western school.

His tenure at Iowa State from 1992 to 2006 further cemented his reputation, producing 10 individual NCAA titles and 52 All-America honors, including coaching wrestling legend Cael Sanderson to an undefeated collegiate career and an Olympic gold medal. Douglas was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1987, among numerous other halls of fame, recognizing his profound impact on the sport. He passed away at his home in Ames, Iowa, surrounded by his loving family.