Lucas Byrd, for some, resides the dream.
The 5-foot-5 novice wrestling star of the College of Illinois lately captured nationwide consideration, not just for his athletic prowess but additionally for his relationship with former Illini volleyball participant Ellie Holzman, who stands at 6-3.
After successful the 133-pound NCAA championship, Byrd ran over to embrace his household, and sprinted to hug Holzman, who was seated matside in assist of her “short king” boyfriend, and the 2 embraced
“He loves her, Ellie,” former UFC champion and Division I All-American Daniel Cormier exclaimed on the ESPN broadcast because the announce desk looked for the phrases to specific within the second.
“Love knows no boundaries, certainly not height, D.C.,” play-by-play announcer Mike Couzens replied.
“I think they’re wonderful together, they’re wonderful,” Cormier added.
Byrd and Holzman, standing at 6-3, have embraced their notable peak distinction, sharing their experiences on social media platforms like TikTok, the place they’ve amassed roughly 420,000 followers.
Holzman posted a photograph of their hug on Instagram following the win, “You freaking did it baby🥹🥹 NATIONAL CHAMPION!🥇🏆 I am so beyond proud of you. Coming back after a gnarly injury, rehab/recovery, and medical redshirt season to go all the way to the top. My SUPERSTAR!!!!🌟The world is yours🖤 ILL💙🧡”
One prime remark replied, “Look at my goat man,” referring to Byrd, “Giving all us short kings hope.”
Their relationship reportedly started after the 2 met at a bar close to campus.
Holzman playfully famous Byrd’s resemblance to Harry Potter.
Initially hesitant as a result of peak disparity, Holzman finally overcame her reservations, resulting in a flourishing partnership.
Byrd completed fifth on the NCAA Championships in the identical weight division in each 2021 and 2022.
He sat out final season as a result of a medical redshirt and emerged along with his finest season of school wrestling as a senior in 2024-25.
Holzman was a extremely completed highschool volleyball participant, successful Gatorade Nationwide Participant of the 12 months for the 2018-19 season, however accidents pressured her to medically retire in 2022 after enjoying at Illinois in a restricted trend.
