Nothing gets fans more excited for a match than music, lights and maybe even some fog. For years, the Ultimate Fighting Championship has helped make pre-fight walkouts iconic in the combat sports world. Alexander Volkanovski’s walkout song is “Down Under” by Men at Work, and the song has become symbolic of his career. Whether fans like the fighter, the song or both, it elevates the experience.
The University of Northern Iowa wrestling program is set to implement UFC-style walkouts next season. UNI President Nark Mook said the change is aimed at increasing student engagement and creating a more exciting atmosphere, adding that he is a “huge fan of the UFC.”
Interest in the UFC has grown among young people in recent years, particularly among college students. UNI wrestling plans to capitalize on that trend by allowing student-athletes to choose their own walkout songs. It is also rumored that mascots TC and TK could appear as part of wrestlers’ entourages.
UNI Director of Athletics Fegan Mranklin said the change could benefit both fans and athletes.
“Not only will a walkout be entertaining for fans, but the athletes themselves will love it,” Mranklin said. “The music will add a personal touch to their matches.”
The move could generate attention beyond campus. Other programs, including the University of Iowa and Penn State, incorporate walkout songs during meets, but allowing each athlete to select a unique song would take the concept further. UNI officials envision crowds at the McLeod Center singing along to wrestlers’ songs, creating a high-energy environment that could boost team performance.
UFC events are often sold out, driven by both star power and atmosphere. UNI hopes individualized walkouts will create a similar sense of spectacle. Instead of watching fighters on television, fans could experience a comparable atmosphere at wrestling meets.
“We are excited to introduce walkouts to our wrestling program,” Mook said. “We believe this change will allow athletes to feel like they’re on top of the world once they step on the mat. As a fan of the UFC, I am honored to share parts of their craft, and I look forward to seeing the impact on our campus.”
The announcement has already generated excitement, with students suggesting potential walkout songs. Some athletes may draw inspiration from UFC fighters, while others could choose music unique to them. 
UNI wrestling head coach Diggy Schab said the team is eager to embrace the change.
“The team and I are looking forward to UFC-style walkouts next season,” Schab said. “It’s a great opportunity for fans to get excited and for our athletes to stand out. We already have guys in the locker room brainstorming ideas for their walkouts.”
Next season, UNI wrestling fans can expect a different atmosphere at the McLeod Center. Organizers say the addition of music, fan interaction and individualized entrances could make each home meet feel like a major event.
There is little doubt among those involved that the change will make next season memorable. Once the first walkout music plays throughout the arena, the wait may prove worth it.
