American Ninja Warrior season 17 episode 6 recap: Final qualifiers feature fast runs and emotional comebacks

NBC’s American Ninja Warrior season 17 returned with episode 6 on Monday, July 7, 2025, featuring the sixth and final night of the qualifiers. Hosted by Matt Iseman, Akbar Gbaja-Biamila, and Zuri Hall, the episode brought together seasoned veterans, determined rookies, and inspiring stories from across the country.

The course included classic obstacles like Quad Steps, Lunatic Ledges, Log Runner, Crank It Up, and V Formation, followed by the Warped Wall and optional Mega Wall challenge. Some of the most talked-about runs included Noah Meunier’s lightning-fast buzzer at 01:02.43, Joe Moravsky’s high-speed finish, and Abby Clark becoming the only woman of the night to hit the buzzer and the first ever to beat V Formation.

Alongside the competition, the hosts counted down the top five “wackiest” moments in ANW history. In total, 20 athletes secured their spots in the semifinals. From first-time finishers to longtime competitors making comebacks, the episode wrapped up the qualifier phase on a high note. Here’s a look at all the major moments and performances from the final qualifying round.

Inspiring stories and surprising falls mark the start of the final qualifier night in American Ninja Warrior

 

 

 

 

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This episode of American Ninja Warrior opened with a mix of heartwarming backstories and challenging course runs. First up was 27-year-old physical therapist Nikki Zink, who was cheered on by her sister Alison—a nun in Vatican City. Despite her strong start, Nikki fell on the Log Runner. She was followed by 56-year-old Bootie Cotharan, a pine tree farmer from South Carolina, making his retirement run.

After a decade on the show, Bootie managed to surpass his previous record and made it to the fifth obstacle before falling, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. This episode of American Ninja Warrior also featured a countdown of the top five wackiest ANW moments, beginning with John Loobey losing his dentures in the water back in season 9.

Meanwhile, 50-year-old Jimmy Choi returned to the course despite battling Parkinson’s. With his daughter Karina by his side, Jimmy shared his journey and determination to inspire others. He cleared his personal hurdle by finally beating the third obstacle, but fell on Crank It Up.

Later, 23-year-old Sebastian Ramos became the first finisher of the night, clocking in at 02:46.36. His speed and agility marked a shift in energy, setting the stage for even faster runs and more memorable performances ahead.

Fast buzzer times and strong finishes close out the qualifiers on a high note in American Ninja Warrior

As the episode progressed, the pace picked up with several athletes flying through the course. Jamie Rahn, also known as Captain NBC, returned for his 15th season and finished the course in 02:56.00. Bob Reese followed with a standout moment—performing a flip between bars on Crank It Up before hitting the buzzer at 02:20.84.

Newcomers also impressed, including 22-year-old Luke Lowell-Liszanckie and 24-year-old Matt D’amico, who clocked the fastest time of the night at 01:30.11. Veteran Joe Moravsky closed this episode of American Ninja Warrior, finishing the course in 01:03.17 and narrowly missing the Mega Wall by a foot.

Meanwhile, Noah Meunier delivered the fastest buzzer at 01:02.43. Abby Clark became the only woman of the night to hit the buzzer and made history as the first woman to clear V Formation.

Other finishers included Lucas Reale, Ben Behrends, Deren Perez, and Xavier Dantzler, whose time of 01:10.35 made him the second-fastest of the night. In total, 20 athletes advanced to the semifinals. The final qualifier episode combined high-speed performances, emotional stories, and returning legends—setting the tone for the next stage of the competition.

Stay tuned for more updates.