(LEBANON, Ill., July 12)—Former McKendree wrestler Andrew Sanchez has earned the Season 23 title of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) following his victory in the finals of the light heavyweight competition Friday evening in Las Vegas.
 
Sanchez, who is originally from Shiloh, Ill., but now trains in northern New Jersey, posted a shutout unanimous decision over Khalil Rountree in the final bout held Friday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Sanchez controlled the match from the outset and bested Rountree in the three-round contest. All three judges had Sanchez as the clear winner with scores of 30-25, 30-26 and 30-25. The title match was broadcast live on Fox Sports 1.
 
In early 2016, Sanchez was selected for the UFC reality series, which began airing in April. Sanchez worked his way through the elimination bracket and semifinals to set up his appearance on the live light heavyweight final. With his victory in the TUF Season 23 finale, Sanchez improved to 9-2 in his professional career.
 
During his four years at McKendree, Sanchez was one of the most dominant wrestlers in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). He was a two-time national champion at 197 pounds, winning his second title in his final collegiate bout as a senior in 2011. The victory capped a 38-1 senior campaign for Sanchez, who was named the NAIA Wrestler of the Year following the effort. Over his four seasons at McKendree. Sanchez posted an overall record of 144-23 and was a four-time NAIA All-America selection.