Kurt Angle recently provided revealing insights into his negotiations with the late Hulk Hogan regarding the Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAF) promotion. During a detailed interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Angle shared how he initially turned down Hogan’s offer to join the promotion — a decision shaped by financial considerations and mutual respect. This candid conversation sheds new light on the final months of Hogan’s life and his vision for RAF, which continues as a tribute to his legacy.
Turning Down Hulk Hogan’s Initial Offer
When Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff launched Real American Freestyle Wrestling earlier in 2025, they sought notable wrestling talents to help elevate the new promotion. Hogan personally reached out to Kurt Angle to come on board as a commentator, hoping to leverage Angle’s star power.
Angle recalled their first discussions on the Ariel Helwani Show, admitting he initially declined Hogan’s offer due to the proposed contract’s financial terms. “He said, ‘Listen, we can make this thing really big, but I need you to be part of the team,’” Angle explained. “I turned him down because the first offer was lower than I expected, and I felt I needed a bit more compensation to commit.” Hogan reportedly replied that the promotion couldn’t increase the offer at that time, reflecting RAF’s early stage and budget constraints[1][3].
Despite this rocky start, Angle emphasized his admiration for Hogan, noting, “I was a total fan boy—wrestling Hulk Hogan? That was huge for me.” Eventually, both sides found a way forward, and Angle made his debut at RAF’s inaugural event. This event proceeded as a heartfelt tribute shortly after Hogan’s untimely death on July 24, 2025, honoring his enormous impact on wrestling[1][2].
RAF’s Journey After Hogan’s Passing
Hogan’s passing shook the wrestling world and the RAF team deeply. However, the promotion pressed on with its scheduled events, turning the initial event into a celebration of Hogan’s life and career. RAF is currently preparing for its second major event on October 25, followed by another in Chicago the next month, aiming to fulfill Hogan’s vision of building a significant wrestling platform[1].
A source close to RAF management shared, “Hogan was passionate about creating something unique with RAF — blending traditional wrestling with a fresh freestyle approach. His death was a huge loss, but everyone involved is committed to keeping his dream alive.” This continued dedication underscores RAF’s growing potential within the crowded wrestling landscape.
Legal Matters and Hogan’s Health Concerns
In the wake of Hogan’s death, his widow, Sky Daily, has publicly suggested the possibility of legal action concerning Hogan’s final surgery. She alleged the star’s phrenic nerve was compromised during the operation, seriously affecting his breathing ability — a critical health issue that may have contributed to his passing[1]. Such developments have cast a somber shadow over the promotion and the wrestling community.
According to a WWE insider, “Hogan’s family is seeking answers about the medical care he received in his final days. This situation adds complexity to RAF’s trajectory, but those close to Hogan are focused on honoring his legacy first and foremost.”
Kurt Angle’s Respect and Commitment to Hogan’s Vision
Throughout his interview, Angle expressed profound respect for Hogan, both as a wrestling icon and as a visionary behind RAF. Angle’s eventual involvement as a commentator represents a merging of wrestling generations, carrying forward Hogan’s mission to innovate and entertain.
Angle said, “Though it was a tough negotiation, it was an honor to be part of what Hulk set in motion. We all want to see RAF grow and become a place where both legends and new stars can shine.”
This collaboration highlights the wrestling community’s resilience and dedication to preserving the legacies of its greatest stars. As RAF pushes ahead, Kurt Angle’s participation lends it credibility, ensuring fans stay connected to the spirit Hogan embodied.
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Kurt Angle’s reflections provide a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts to launch a wrestling promotion shaped by one of the biggest stars in history. While the path was interrupted by tragedy, the story continues as RAF seeks to realize Hogan’s ambitious dream.