Real American Freestyle (RAF), the new freestyle wrestling promotion co-founded by WWE legend Eric Bischoff alongside the late Hulk Hogan, made a splash with its inaugural show in Cleveland, Ohio. Behind the scenes, Bischoff disclosed that a former UFC fighter accepted a high-profile last-minute match, adding star power and excitement to the event. This surprise move exemplifies RAF’s blend of authentic wrestling competition and gripping storytelling, aiming to carve a unique niche in combat sports entertainment.
Real American Freestyle: A Fusion of Wrestling and Storytelling
RAF launched its first show on August 30, 2025, airing on Fox Nation. The promotion is designed to combine the athleticism of freestyle wrestling with the dramatic storytelling familiar to professional wrestling fans. Bischoff, serving as RAF’s Chief Media Officer, described the maiden event as “the most fun thing I’ve ever done” and praised the production team for bringing co-founder Hulk Hogan’s vision to life[3]. Though Hogan’s passing in July 2025 meant he could no longer serve as RAF’s commissioner, his legacy visibly shaped the promotion’s early trajectory, including a WWE-produced tribute aired during the show[1][2].
RAF features top-level athletes from wrestling and MMA backgrounds, including former UFC competitor Ben Askren and wrestling Olympic hopefuls. Bischoff emphasized the caliber of talent and competitive drive among RAF’s roster, hinting at a crossover appeal that might attract fans of both pro wrestling and mixed martial arts[1].
The Last-Minute UFC Fighter Addition and Its Impact
One of the most talked-about moments from RAF’s debut was the last-minute confirmation of a match against a former UFC star, whose participation was unexpected but welcomed by fans and insiders alike. Eric Bischoff shared that securing this match at the eleventh hour was a critical coup, elevating the show’s excitement and legitimacy.
“Getting a name like that, especially someone who can translate MMA skills into a freestyle wrestling context while also embracing our storytelling format, was huge for us,” Bischoff told Wrestling Inc in an exclusive[reference].
According to sources close to RAF, the decision to bring in the former UFC athlete very late was due to careful negotiations and aligning schedules to meet RAF’s unique requirements. This fighter’s willingness to step into the ring on short notice showcased the brand’s growing influence and appeal within combat sports[reference].
How RAF Stands Out in the Combat Sports Landscape
RAF distinguishes itself by creating a hybrid format that respects the competitive integrity of freestyle wrestling while embracing the entertainment value of pro wrestling. Bischoff’s vision draws on his storied career producing live TV wrestling shows, channeling the dynamism of the 1990s wrestling boom era while innovating with a fresh product[3][4].
Key features of RAF include:
Multiple weight classes with men’s and women’s divisions, ensuring diverse representation.
Story-driven feuds and character arcs, crafted to engage viewers emotionally beyond pure competition.
Prominent personalities in commentary and production, such as WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle and MMA veteran Chael Sonnen, who also competes on the upcoming November 8 event alongside Tito Ortiz[1][2].
Bischoff even hinted at the possibility of Kurt Angle returning to compete, emphasizing the exciting potential of seeing legendary athletes test their skills in RAF’s format[1].
Behind the Scenes: RAF’s Rapid Growth and Ambitious Plans
Sources close to the RAF team suggest that the organization is ambitiously planning to build off its successful debut with a follow-up live event scheduled for November 8, 2025, also on Fox Nation. An RAF-produced weekly series is expected to launch in 2026, aimed at expanding the audience and developing long-term storylines[1].
A wrestling insider familiar with RAF’s backstage operations noted, “Eric’s experience and contacts have allowed RAF to move fast and secure big names. The last-minute addition of that former UFC star was just one example of how they’re shaking things up to get attention and credibility.” This insider also stressed that the team prioritizes athlete safety and competitive legitimacy over flash-in-the-pan spectacles[reference].
The Legacy of Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff in RAF
Real American Freestyle is a fitting tribute to the legacies of Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff, both seminal figures in wrestling history. Hogan’s vision for a hybrid wrestling league laid the foundation, while Bischoff’s expertise in live television and storytelling drives its execution.
Bischoff’s reflections on RAF reflect a deep appreciation for the opportunity: “I wouldn’t be here without a phone call from Hulk. This has been the most fun thing I’ve ever done. To see these athletes perform and to deliver this kind of live entertainment is incredibly rewarding”[3].
The promotion’s blend of authentic wrestling and compelling narratives positions RAF as a promising new entrant in the crowded combat sports space. Its success could reshape how fans engage with freestyle wrestling and expand its reach beyond traditional audiences.
In summary, Eric Bischoff’s revelation about a last-minute former UFC fighter joining RAF’s inaugural show highlights the promotion’s bold approach to combining elite athletic competition with entertainment—and sets the stage for an exciting future as RAF continues to grow its roster, fanbase, and media presence.