Yelena Makoyed won three international ranking tournaments in 2022, which places her near the top of FloWrestling's pound-for-pound women's college rankings. She is also a two-time NCWWC (NCAA) champion and a three-time finalist. 

Makoyed will take on Jesaphine Lee at the NWCA All-Star Classic on November 22. Makoyed picked out three of her favorite matches and provided brief comments on why each was important to her career.

2022 Matteo Pellicone: Makoyed vs Epp Mae (EST)

I was down by a point with nine seconds to go but hope was not lost. This match demonstrates the chaotic nature of wrestling -- two people trying to impose their will on each other; my coach scrambling to towel me off with his shirt (we forgot to grab a towel); the panic in the eyes of my opponent in the eighth minute; and the outcome flipped in a matter of nine seconds. (Note: Mae is a Senior World silver medalist).

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Zouhaier Sghaier Gold Medal Match: Makoyed vs Dymond Guilford (USA)

This was a redeeming match for me. I was tired of losing to the same person over and over again. I knew I was better. I made the adjustments and told myself I wasn't going to lose again. My movement and body awareness in this match are immaculate. I came off the mat knowing I gave my all and I was incredibly proud of myself, even if I only won by a takedown. 

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Matteo Pellicone Semifinals: Makoyed vs Catalina Axente (ROU)

When I was at Final X this summer, I met the legend himself: John Smith. After being exposed, I began to study him out, specifically his notorious low single. I ended up hitting the low single in this match a few times and it has been one of my top moves since. Thanks, John. 

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