Real American Freestyle (RAF) is gearing up for its debut event “RAF01” on August 30, 2025, at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio, with a heartfelt tribute to wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, who passed away last month. The tribute will be streamed exclusively on FOX Nation, the official broadcast partner of RAF, offering fans a unique opportunity to honor Hogan’s legacy in an unforgettable live show setting.
Honoring a Wrestling Legend
Hulk Hogan’s influence on professional wrestling is unparalleled, and RAF01 promises to reflect that by dedicating a significant portion of the event to celebrate his life and career. FOX Nation will stream the tribute live, featuring personal tributes from Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, and his son, Nick Hogan. Their remarks are expected to give fans intimate insight into the man behind the legend.
Sources close to the Real American Freestyle team revealed, “Paying homage to Hulk was never just an option; it’s at the heart of RAF’s mission to honor the foundations of wrestling while pushing forward new and innovative storytelling. Having his family participate makes it deeply personal and special.” This underscores RAF’s goal to blend tradition with fresh energy in professional wrestling.
The Inaugural RAF01 Event: A New Era of Wrestling
RAF01 is not just a tribute show but also marks the launch of a fresh approach to wrestling entertainment. Founded by industry veterans including Eric Bischoff, Chad Bronstein, and Izzy Martinez, Real American Freestyle aims to bring a professionalized and bold new format. According to insiders, the promotion blends intense competition with advanced storytelling, capturing the evolving tastes of modern wrestling audiences.
Adding star power to RAF01’s commentary team are legends like Kurt Angle, former MMA standout Chael Sonnen, and MMA champion Bubba Jenkins. Their expert analysis is expected to enrich the broadcast, creating an immersive experience for viewers on FOX Nation.
Lineup Highlights and Entertainment
RAF01’s card features prominent combat sports figures such as Julianna Pena, Holly Holm, Urijah Faber, Mark Coleman, Tito Ortiz, and Clay Guida, ensuring a lineup that appeals to both wrestling and MMA fans. Additionally, American country duo LoCash will perform a special concert at the live event, further enhancing the entertainment value.
A WWE insider commented on the significance of the event: “RAF’s inaugural show is redefining what a wrestling event can be — it’s part combat sport spectacle, part entertainment extravaganza, and this tribute to Hogan adds a profound emotional layer that connects fans to wrestling’s rich history.”
FOX Nation Partnership and Broadcast Plans
FOX Nation has secured exclusive streaming rights for RAF01 and the upcoming second event slated for later this fall. This partnership aims to deliver high-quality, action-packed programming directly to subscribers, expanding the reach and impact of Real American Freestyle’s innovative vision.
By partnering with FOX Nation, RAF benefits from a major platform that promises production excellence and a wide audience, amplifying the tribute’s impact. The network’s commitment to streaming the Hulk Hogan tribute highlights the enduring appeal of one of pro wrestling’s greatest icons.
Context on Hulk Hogan’s Passing
Hulk Hogan passed away on July 24, 2025. Reports have surfaced indicating that his death may be linked to medical complications following surgery affecting his phrenic nerve. While investigations are ongoing, numerous tributes have poured in from across the wrestling world, including WWE’s commemorations on Raw, SmackDown, and NXT.
TMZ also aired a documentary special titled The Real Hulk Hogan, featuring testimonials from wrestling legends and celebrities alike, demonstrating the massive cultural footprint Hogan left behind. This broader context makes RAF01’s tribute particularly poignant.
Looking Ahead
Real American Freestyle’s inaugural event is poised to set the tone for a new chapter in wrestling entertainment—one that balances reverence for the pioneers with bold innovation. The tribute to Hulk Hogan is not only a fitting homage to a legendary figure but also a strong statement of RAF’s ambition to be a pivotal wrestling promotion in the coming years.
Fans and critics alike will be watching RAF01 closely — with the streamed Hogan tribute on FOX Nation providing a meaningful connection to wrestling’s storied past while igniting excitement for RAF’s future.
“Hogan helped lay the groundwork for every wrestling show fans watch today,” said an industry veteran familiar with RAF’s plans. “To start RAF with a tribute to him is a powerful way of acknowledging that legacy as we push forward.”