Real American Freestyle Wrestling Gains Momentum

Real American Freestyle (RAF) has quickly become more popular since its inception last year.

Founded by wrestling icons including the late Hulk Hogan, Chad Bronstein, Izzy Martinez, and Eric Bischoff, the organization aims to expand professional freestyle wrestling throughout the United States and globally. Wyatt Hendrickson and Kennedy Blades are among the notable champions representing RAF.

Recently, Bronstein and Martinez sparked buzz around RAF by revealing they are in talks with NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis regarding a potential wrestling match this year. Although no agreement is finalized, reports suggest that negotiations are progressing positively.

Kurt Angle, a former WWE star and Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling, expressed skepticism about Lewis’s success against elite competitors, mentioning that while Lewis has a high school wrestling background, he would more likely represent RAF without participating in an actual match. “Every match in Olympic-style wrestling is real,” Angle stated, wishing Lewis well but noting his age—around 51—might complicate matters if he were to step onto the mat with top-tier wrestlers.

Lewis previously won a state wrestling title before dedicating himself to football, achieving legendary status as a linebacker in the NFL. Angle, who briefly worked with RAF as a commentator, stated he harbors no grudges about his departure, which he attributed to budget cuts. He expressed confidence in RAF’s prospects, likening its growth potential to that of the UFC, as they aim to expand their presence worldwide, from Russia to Europe and Asia.

Angle noted the difference in popularity of wrestling in various regions, highlighting that while it may not be as mainstream in Western Europe, it’s well-received in Eastern Europe and Asia. He believes RAF is on track to thrive as it signs wrestlers from various countries, indicating a promising future for the organization.

Currently, Real American Freestyle broadcasts live on Fox Nation, with its next event, RAF14, scheduled for October 23 in Las Vegas.