Credit: WWE.com
Eric Bischoff, WWE Hall of Famer and wrestling executive, recently likened the debut of his new combat sports promotion, Real American Freestyle (RAF), to the early days of launching World Championship Wrestling (WCW). In an exclusive interview following RAF’s inaugural event in Cleveland, Ohio, Bischoff explained that both ventures sought to tap into underserved segments of the wrestling and combat sports audience a strategy that he believes is key to RAF’s potential success.
Revisiting the Launch of WCW: Finding the Untapped Audience
Bischoff shared with the program “Undisputed” that when he started WCW’s flagship show Nitro, they aimed to capture a specific demographic largely ignored at the time. “We found our sweet spot in WCW by appealing to an underserved market,” he said, referring to the 18–49-year-old male demographic, which WWE had mostly overlooked during the early 1990s in favor of younger, teen-focused audiences.
“This wasn’t just about wrestling it was about giving fans who craved something different a product made for them. That strategy allowed WCW to break new ground and compete head-to-head with WWE,” Bischoff explained.
Real American Freestyle: A New Alternative for Wrestling and Combat Sports Fans
RAF’s first event showcased a hybrid approach, featuring top-level freestyle wrestlers like Bo Nickal and Holly Holm alongside amateur wrestling legends such as Kurt Angle and Chael Sonnen serving as commentators. RAF blends competitive wrestling with elements designed to engage hardcore fans and combat sports enthusiasts alike.
Bischoff emphasized RAF’s focus on delivering “a product that combat sports fans can sink their teeth into,” highlighting that the promotion is targeting an audience that already has a deep love and knowledge of wrestling, which often goes underserved by mainstream wrestling shows.
“We’re not here to recreate the wheel; we’re here to bring something authentic and compelling to fans who want more more of the sport, more of the action, and more respect for the athletes,” Bischoff said.
The Excitement and Challenges of Building a New Wrestling Brand
Reflecting on RAF’s debut, Bischoff described the experience as “the most fun thing I’ve ever done” in the television production and wrestling business. The event at Cleveland’s Wolstein Center included an on-air tribute to the late Hulk Hogan, who was one of RAF’s co-founders and was originally slated to serve as Commissioner before his passing.
Bischoff credited his co-founders Chad Bronstein and Israel Martinez along with Hogan’s legacy for enabling the project. “I wouldn’t be here without a phone call from Hulk,” Bischoff remarked, showing respect for the legend’s role in inspiring RAF’s mission.
According to a WWE insider familiar with RAF’s backstage environment, “The passion driving this promotion is reminiscent of the early days of WCW but with a fresh vibe a real hunger to reconnect with a fan base that feels wrestling and freestyle wrestling have grown apart.”
Looking Ahead: Notable Matches and Potential Returns
RAF plans to hold its next event on November 8, 2025, at the Bryce Jordan Center in College Township, Pennsylvania. One of the highlighted matchups already set is former MMA star Tito Ortiz challenging commentator and wrestling stalwart Chael Sonnen, a storyline that brings additional excitement to the growing promotion.
Bischoff also teased the possibility of WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle stepping back into the ring. While he admitted Angle’s physical condition is uncertain, the legendary wrestler’s competitive spirit is undeniable. “Kurt is an elite-of-the-elite level athlete. There’s still that competitive drive and desire,” said Bischoff. “If Kurt can step in, it would be extremely exciting for fans of both wrestling and amateur sport”.
The Vision for Real American Freestyle’s Future
In the long term, RAF intends to expand beyond singular events with plans for a weekly series starting in 2026. The promotion aims to establish itself as a premier platform where elite freestyle wrestlers can develop careers and build their personal brands while entertaining fans with a unique blend of sport and showmanship.
Bischoff summarized his vision: “With Real American Freestyle, we’re continuing the journey of delivering high-octane, legitimate wrestling that respects the sport’s roots but also embraces the entertainment side. We’re giving fans a reason to cheer, debate, and come back week after week”.