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Real American Freestyle Debuts Hulk Hogan Posthumous Commissioner

Published 2 September 2025

Real American Freestyle held its inaugural event on Saturday night at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio, airing live on Fox Nation and serving as a tribute to cofounder Hulk Hogan, who died on July 24 at age 71. The promotion staged 10 freestyle matches under Olympic-style rules, crowned several inaugural champions and announced plans for a second event this fall and a weekly series in 2026.

Nick Hogan, the late wrestler's son, confirmed at the league's kickoff that his father will have a permanent, posthumous role as commissioner and said he will represent his father's interests as the promotion grows. "My dad, Hulk Hogan, will always serve as the commissioner for this league," Nick Hogan said. He and Hogan's widow, Sky Daily, appeared at the event to pay tribute, which included a video tribute and other commemorations the promotion said featured voiceovers recorded by Hogan before his death.

RAF listed a high-profile roster that blended current collegiate stars, Olympians and crossover combat-sports names. The broadcast featured commentary from WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle, former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen and Bubba Jenkins. Notable attendees included Tito Ortiz and Jimmy...

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