Youth Wrestler Cited For Assault Over Sucker Punch After Losing Match

The youth wrestler who clocked his opponent in the face following a match earlier this month has been cited for assault … TMZ Sports has learned.

The Oak Park Police Dept. tells us the 14-year-old eighth grader was officially issued the citation on Thursday … after he admitted to officers he punched his counterpart because “he was angry that he had lost the match.”

The boy is now facing fines and penalties depending on the outcome of an adjudication hearing in Oak Park, Ill. next month.

As we reported, the incident went down on April 8 at Oak Park River Forest H.S. in Oak Park, Ill. … after a 14-year-old SPAR Academy wrestler had won a match, 14-2, and had looked to shake hands with his opponent out of a show of sportsmanship.

Cops tells us … when they arrived on the scene following the altercation, the victim had sustained a bloody nose from the cheap shot, but declined further medical care.

Police say all parties cooperated with the ensuing investigation.

It’s unclear if the puncher will face further discipline — such as a lifetime ban from wrestling — but MMA legend Chael Sonnen told us this week he was hopeful the boy would avoid any sort of lengthy time away from the mat.

“This was a terrible moment,” Sonnen said, “but it could also be a teachable moment.”

As for the victim’s recovery, his coach told us earlier this week he’s already returned to training.