Real American Freestyle (RAF) is gaining traction since its inception last year. Founded by the late Hulk Hogan, Chad Bronstein, Izzy Martinez, and Eric Bischoff, RAF aims to popularize professional freestyle wrestling in the U.S. and worldwide.
Among its top champions are Wyatt Hendrickson and Kennedy Blades.
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Ray Lewis, former linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, was featured in discussions with RAF figures Bronstein and Martinez regarding a potential match before year-end. Though no deal has been finalized, the prospects look promising according to MMA Fighting reports.
Kurt Angle, a distinguished Olympic gold medalist and former WWE star, expressed skepticism about Lewis’s potential performance against elite wrestlers. Speaking to OutKick Dropkick, Angle noted Lewis’s high school wrestling experience but doubted his capacity to compete at such a high level. He remarked, “Ray is a bad** but given his age, it might not be advisable for him to compete against top wrestlers.”
Lewis, 51, was a Florida state wrestling champion before his prolific football career. Despite this background, Angle conveyed concerns about Lewis taking on world-class opponents.
Angle briefly served as a RAF commentator before being released due to budget considerations. He remains optimistic about RAF’s growth, envisioning it on par with other major organizations like UFC. RAF plans extensive global outreach, visiting various countries including Russia and upcoming events in Europe and India.
RAF’s endeavors reflect wrestling’s popularity, particularly outside the United States, making strides in Eastern Europe and Asia. Angle foresees RAF becoming a powerhouse akin to UFC, owing to their international signings.
Real American Freestyle airs live on Fox Nation, with RAF14 set to take place in Las Vegas on Oct. 23.
Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.