In a recent revealing interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle shared the inside story behind his negotiations with the late Hulk Hogan regarding involvement in Hogan’s Real American Freestyle (RAF) Wrestling promotion. Angle also discussed how their professional relationship evolved following an initial hesitation and the impact Hogan’s death had on the budding promotion.
Turning Down Hulk Hogan’s Initial Offer
Kurt Angle disclosed that, when Hulk Hogan first approached him about joining RAF Wrestling in a commentator role, Angle initially turned down the offer due to financial reasons. Hogan had pitched the idea that this new venture had the potential to become “really big” and needed Angle as part of the team. However, the monetary offer was lower than Angle expected. He told Helwani, “I probably need a little bit more than that,” to which Hogan responded that he couldn’t provide a higher amount at that time[2][3].
Despite this, Angle was starstruck by the opportunity, describing himself as a “fan boy” thrilled to work alongside the wrestling legend. Their back-and-forth about the deal showcased Angle’s professional approach, balancing respect for Hogan with the practicalities of contract negotiations.
Joining Real American Freestyle Wrestling
Eventually, Angle accepted to participate, becoming a key on-air personality for RAF. The promotion, co-founded by Hogan and Eric Bischoff, debuted in August 2025, aiming to blend amateur wrestling styles with entertainment-driven presentation. Angle praised the backing behind RAF, calling it a “league with funding and potential” that could succeed where past similar attempts faltered[1].
Angle expressed some regret that such a platform didn’t exist during his peak wrestling years, saying, “I probably would have stuck with amateur wrestling,” if RAF had been around earlier. Now, he’s excited to contribute to the promotion as a commentator, combining his Olympic gold medal-winning credentials with his WWE insight.
The Impact of Hulk Hogan’s Passing
Sadly, Hogan passed away on July 24, 2025, shortly after RAF’s launch plans were announced but before its first event[2]. Despite this tragedy, the RAF held its inaugural event as a tribute to Hogan’s legacy and is moving forward with upcoming shows scheduled for October 25 and November 2025.
Sources close to the promotion have indicated that Hogan’s death affected the backstage atmosphere but has also strengthened the resolve of those involved to honor his vision. According to a WWE insider, “Hogan’s influence and personality are still felt in every aspect of RAF. Kurt and Eric Bischoff are dedicated to carrying that torch forward.”
Legal Matters Surrounding Hogan’s Passing
In the same interview timeline, Hogan’s widow, Sky Daily, suggested she might pursue legal action connected to Hogan’s final surgery, believed to have compromised his phrenic nerve, which affects breathing[2]. This sensitive issue has cast a shadow over RAF’s early days, though the promotion remains committed to moving ahead.
Kurt Angle’s Excitement for RAF’s Future
Angle’s enthusiasm for RAF remains high as he prepares to call matches featuring top amateur wrestlers, including standout stars like Bo Nickal and 2025 NCAA Heavyweight National Champion Wyatt Hendrickson[1]. He recognizes the unique approach Hogan and Bischoff bring, blending traditional wrestling spectacle with Olympic-style competition for broader appeal.
Angle summarized his motivation: “I just wanted to be a part of it, whether as a competitor or commentator. This is something different, and I’m proud to help build it.”
Behind the Scenes: The RAF Vision
According to insiders familiar with RAF’s development, the promotion’s goal is to create a sustainable platform that elevates amateur wrestlers while delivering compelling entertainment to fans who crave wrestling with both authenticity and drama. The involvement of legendary figures like Hogan, Bischoff, and Angle lends the project strong credibility.
One backstage source remarked, “This is not just another wrestling league. RAF is meant to be a bridge between Olympic wrestling’s purity and professional wrestling’s charisma. Hulk wanted to revolutionize the sport, and that vision lives on.”
Kurt Angle’s candid revelations about his negotiations with Hulk Hogan provide a rare glimpse into the complexities behind launching a new wrestling promotion, as well as the personal dynamics involved. While the loss of Hogan is deeply felt, RAF Wrestling is forging ahead with a vision that could reshape wrestling’s future. As the promotion’s next event approaches, all eyes will be on how Kurt Angle and the RAF team honor their late leader’s ambitions.