Eastern High School Alumni

Lansing, Michigan (MI)

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Kevin Jackson

Olympic Gold Medalist in freestyle wrestling, former head wrestling coach at Iowa State University

What is Kevin Jackson known for?

Kevin Andre Jackson, born November 25, 1964 in Highland Falls, New York, is a renowned American freestyle and folkstyle wrestler, and mixed martial artist. An alumnus of Eastern High School in Lansing, Michigan, Jackson demonstrated his wrestling prowess early on, winning two state high school championships and becoming a Junior National Greco-Roman wrestling champion.

His athletics career took him to Louisiana State University (LSU) and later Iowa State University where he earned All-America honors three times and represented both universities in various NCAA Championships. After LSU dropped its wrestling program, he shifted to Iowa State University.

During his international career, Jackson brought home a multitude of awards, including a Gold Medal at the 1992 Olympics. He also emerged as a two-time World Champion in 1991 and 1995, as well as a three-time World Cup Gold medalist in 1993, 1995, and 1997. Moreover, he clinched Gold at the Pan American Games twice in 1991 and 1995.

Following his successful wrestling career, Jackson became a notable coach, including a stint as the Head Development Coach at the Olympic Training Center and the Head Coach at Iowa State University. In recent years, he has transitioned to serve as an Assistant Wrestling Coach for the University of Michigan. Jackson also ventured into mixed martial arts, holding a record of 4 wins and 2 losses, all by submission.

Throughout his life, Kevin Jackson has exemplified athletic excellence and dedication, leaving a remarkable legacy in the world of wrestling and mixed martial arts, inspiring the next generation of athletes and coaches.

You can learn more about Kevin Jackson's achievements and career by following these links: