Lizzie Shunn defeated Syndey Perry twice in the best-of-three finals at U17 Nationals, but Perry represented the United States at the World Championships in Rome. How is that possible?

Shunn was scheduled to compete but withdrew days before the competition, which gave Perry an opportunity to take over the 65-kilogram spot despite 7-2 and 10-0 losses to Shunn at Nationals. Perry reached the bronze medal match at Worlds before placing fifth. 

They will square off at Who’s Number One in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on September 9 for the third time this year. 

Shunn (Eagle Mountain, Utah) enters her senior year at West Lake High School following a breakout year. She is a three-time Utah state champion, a fourth-place finisher at the 2021 16U Nationals, and a seventh-place finisher at the 2021 High School Recruiting Showcase. 

Perry (Batavia, Illinois) won a silver medal at the U17 Pan-American Championships and won Junior Nationals this year at 144 pounds after placing third in the 16U division. She enters her junior year at Batavia High School.

Unlock this video, live events, and more with a subscription!

Sign Up

Already a subscriber? Log In

Shunn defeated Perry 10-0 in their second match at U17 Nationals

Unlock this video, live events, and more with a subscription!

Sign Up

Already a subscriber? Log In

Sydney Perry won a wild 13-12 final in Fargo this year

Announced Who's Number One women's match-ups
94 pounds: Erica Pastoriza vs Morgan Turner
100 pounds: Gabriella Gomez vs Valarie Solorio
106 pounds: Clare Booe vs Gigi Bragg
112 pounds: Ava Ward vs Alex Szkotnicki
117 pounds: Persaeus Gomez vs Elena Ivaldi
127 pounds: Skylar Little Soldier vs Shelby Moore
132 pounds: Janida Garcia vs Valerie Hamilton
144 pounds: Lizzie Shunn vs Sydney Perry