Chandler vs Mendes set for RAF03 at Wintrust Arena, Chicago

Real American Freestyle has booked a headline showdown between former mixed martial arts standouts Michael Chandler and Chad Mendes for RAF03 on November 29, 2025, at Wintrust Arena in Chicago. The promotion announced the matchup Wednesday, billing the contest as a return to the competitors' collegiate wrestling roots and one of its marquee events as it expands its schedule.

Chandler, 39, a former Bellator lightweight champion and NCAA Division I All American from the University of Missouri, and Mendes, 40, a two time NCAA finalist from Cal Poly and a longtime UFC featherweight contender, will make their RAF debuts in the main event. Both fighters are widely known for high-profile MMA fights; Chandler has faced opponents including Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje, while Mendes is best known for bouts against Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor and has also competed in bare-knuckle boxing and grappling contests.

RAF cofounder and chief executive Chad Bronstein described the pairing as a "full-circle moment" that brings elite athletes back to the sport that launched their careers. "Bringing Mendes and Chandler to the RAF mat is a full-circle moment for wrestling," he said. "These are...