The Rise of Real American Freestyle (RAF) Wrestling

Real American Freestyle (RAF) is steadily gaining traction since its inception last year. Created by the late Hulk Hogan, Chad Bronstein, Izzy Martinez, and Eric Bischoff, RAF aims to popularize professional freestyle wrestling in the United States and worldwide. Notable champions of the league include Wyatt Hendrickson and Kennedy Blades.

Chad Bronstein and Izzy Martinez recently shared with MMA Fighting that discussions were ongoing with NFL legend Ray Lewis to feature in a match by year-end. While no agreement has been finalized, the talks appear promising.

“I don’t know if he’s going to be able to do it,” Kurt Angle disclosed, reflecting on Ray Lewis’s potential participation in RAF matches.

Kurt Angle, ex-WWE star, Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling, and three-time NCAA All-American, talked to OutKick Dropkick about the prospects of Ray Lewis succeeding against elite contenders on the mat. Angle expressed skepticism about the likelihood of Lewis participating, given his age and the rigorous nature of Olympic-style wrestling. Lewis, now 51, had been a Florida state wrestling champion before dominating as an NFL linebacker.

Angle, who served as a commentator for RAF before parting ways due to budgetary constraints, remains optimistic about the organization’s future. “I got let go due to budget and I completely understood,” he noted. RAF’s vision, according to Angle, involves expanding globally, with events already held in Russia and plans to visit Europe and India. Wrestling enjoys significant popularity in Eastern Europe and Asia, boosting RAF’s prospects as a dynamic entity akin to the UFC.

Real American Freestyle, broadcasting on Fox Nation, continues to rise. The upcoming RAF14 event is scheduled for October 23 in Las Vegas, potentially furthering the league’s expansion and success in the sports arena.