During a dual meet, if a referee calls a match for unsportsmanlike conduct, what is the result?

When a referee calls a match for unsportsmanlike conduct, the appropriate result is disqualification. Disqualification is a serious penalty that indicates that a wrestler has violated the rules to such an extent that they must be removed from the competition. Unsportsmanlike conduct can manifest in several ways, including verbal abuse, physical aggression towards an opponent or official, or any behavior that demonstrates a lack of respect for the sport or its participants.

The consequences of a disqualification not only end the individual wrestler's participation in that match but also typically result in the opposing team being awarded points. This ensures that unsportsmanlike behavior is addressed firmly to maintain the integrity of the sport. In dual meets, the scoring is directly impacted, as the team benefits by receiving points for the opponent’s disqualification.

In contrast to other actions such as a warning or point deduction, which serve more as preliminary measures to address misconduct without immediately ending the competitor's participation, a disqualification is definitive and aimed at upholding the sport's standards. Therefore, disqualification serves as both a penalty for the athlete and a strong message to promote fair play and sportsmanship in wrestling.