A judge has denied the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association’s request to disqualify a high school wrestler charged with assault from competing in the state championships.

Saint John Vianney wrestler Anthony Knox was charged with simple assault on Tuesday for his role in a brawl in the stands at a regional tournament at Collingswood High School on Feb. 22.

The NJSIAA says that the three-time state champion should not be able to compete in this year’s tournament.

"We stand by our commitment to enforcing clear and consistent sportsmanship rules that apply to all student-athletes. We are disappointed with the trial court’s decision allowing Anthony Knox to compete and have asked the appeals court to intervene. We will certainly comply with the temporary restraining order unless the appellate courts rule otherwise,” the organization wrote in a statement.

The NJSIAA said it will continue to pursue its legal options.

Knox began his quest for a fourth state title on Thursday in Atlantic City. Only four others have done that in state history.