MMA Cadet Deonte Kerns Earns 100th Career Wrestling Win

Missouri Military Academy is proud to announce a major milestone for senior Cadet Deonte Kerns, who captured his 100th career wrestling win while taking first place in the 144-pound bracket at the Esmond Ford Memorial Tournament in Affton on December 6, 2025. Kerns is a high school senior from Lincoln, Nebraska.

Kerns’ achievement is remarkable not only for its scale but for the journey behind it. He entered the MMA wrestling program as a freshman with no prior wrestling experience, advancing from a brand-new athlete to a dominant competitor. Of his 100 victories, an impressive 54 have come by pin.

Cadet Deonte Kerns competes during his standout senior wrestling season.

Head Coach Levi Iman praised Kerns for his exceptional dedication and relentless pursuit of improvement.

“He is the most dedicated wrestler I have had the opportunity to coach,” Iman said. “He is always looking for ways he can improve or adjustments he can make to be more successful.”

Iman noted that Kerns’ 100th win is just one highlight in a senior season already off to a perfect 11–0 start, with many matches still ahead.

Cadet Kerns wins a match at the Dec. 4, 2025, match in Wright City.

Athletic Director Brian Meny commended Kerns as a model cadet-athlete. “Watching Cadet Kerns reach 100 wins has been special. His work ethic and leadership reflect the high standards of Missouri Military Academy, and we are proud to have him represent MMA,” Meny said.

Congratulations to Cadet Kerns on this accomplishment!