Anthony Robles isn’t just a wrestler; he’s a walking embodiment of resilience, grit, and unyielding determination. Born with only one leg, Anthony could have easily let his condition define him. Instead, he turned it into the foundation of a story that continues to inspire millions around the world. Today, we’re diving into the incredible life of Anthony Robles — a champion on and off the mat.
Early Life and Family Support: The Bedrock of a Champion
Anthony Robles was born on July 15, 1988, in La Mirada, California, but he grew up in Mesa, Arizona. From the start, life threw a curveball his way. He was born without a right leg due to a congenital birth defect. However, his family never allowed him to feel limited. Raised by a single mother, Judy Robles, Anthony’s household was full of love and unwavering support. Judy often reminded him that he was “special” and capable of achieving anything he set his mind to.
This strong family foundation gave Anthony the courage to tackle life head-on. In his own words, his mom’s encouragement taught him that “Disability is not inability.” And Anthony’s journey into the world of wrestling would prove just that.
The Wrestler Who Redefined the Sport
Anthony’s first brush with wrestling came in the eighth grade. Initially, it was less about passion and more about trying to find his niche. Standing at 5’8″ and weighing 125 pounds, Anthony struggled at first. He didn’t win a single match during his first year on the mat. But quitting wasn’t in his vocabulary. Instead, he saw every loss as a stepping stone to improvement.
By the time he reached high school, Anthony had developed a unique wrestling style that leveraged his extraordinary upper body strength. While other wrestlers relied on a combination of footwork and holds, Anthony mastered moves that exploited his low center of gravity and his ability to outmuscle opponents. He went on to win two Arizona state wrestling championships and was undefeated in his senior year with a perfect 96-0 record.
His high school success paved the way for college wrestling, and he joined the team at Arizona State University. In 2011, Anthony clinched the NCAA Division I wrestling championship in the 125-pound weight class. This victory was monumental not only because of the title itself but because Anthony achieved it while being a walk-on athlete. He finished his college career with an astonishing 122-23 record.
Age and Life Beyond Wrestling
As of 2025, Anthony Robles is 36 years old. Though his competitive wrestling days are behind him, he has remained active in the sport through coaching, motivational speaking, and broadcasting. His message is clear: perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
Anthony’s story extends beyond wrestling mats and arenas. He’s a best-selling author, with his autobiography Unstoppable: From Underdog to Undefeated offering a deeper look into his life. His ability to connect with audiences of all ages has made him a sought-after motivational speaker worldwide.
A Glimpse into His Finances
It’s estimated that Anthony Robles’s net worth is around $1 million as of 2025. Much of this comes from his speaking engagements, book sales, and endorsement deals. While he’s not the flashy millionaire type, his wealth lies in the influence and inspiration he’s brought to countless individuals.
A Legacy Bigger Than Wrestling
Anthony’s achievements in wrestling are just one part of his incredible story. He’s used his platform to inspire people with disabilities, athletes, and anyone facing adversity. His message resonates universally: “It’s not what’s missing that counts, but what’s there.”
Beyond his speaking engagements, Anthony has also contributed to various charitable causes, focusing on programs that support athletes with disabilities and encourage youth to dream big. His work ensures that his legacy will continue inspiring generations to come.
