Freestyle wrestling, a sport that has long been overshadowed by its more popular cousin, Greco-Roman wrestling, is finally getting the recognition it deserves. With the announcement of the Real American Freestyle League, founded by professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, the sport is poised to take center stage.
The Perfect Time for Freestyle Wrestling
Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, has been watching freestyle wrestling for years. After discovering the sport, he became convinced that it could become more popular and profitable with the right promotion. His instincts proved to be correct, as the recent success of Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson, who stunned Minnesota’s Gable Steveson with a late takedown to claim the national title at heavyweight, has vaulted freestyle wrestling into the mainstream. The dramatic win and the moments that followed, including Hendrickson saluting President Donald Trump after his victory, have made the timing perfect for Hogan to launch Real American Freestyle. The league will provide more earnings opportunities for a sport that has historically lacked them, and Hogan feels that the time is now. “When I saw that happen and I saw our President hug him, I went, OK, we are on point, we’re ready to go and instincts have prevailed and I smell victory,” Hogan said. “I think we’re right on track, brother.”
A League for the Ages
The Real American Freestyle League will feature single matches at eight men’s and four women’s weight classes. The first event is scheduled for Aug. 30 in Cleveland, with other sites to be named in the coming months. The league will provide a platform for freestyle wrestlers to showcase their skills and compete against each other in a more structured environment. The league will also feature a strong lineup of wrestlers, including Kennedy Blades, an American who earned a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and Zahid Valencia and Ben Askren, who have agreed to participate on the men’s side. Hogan has also expressed interest in having Hendrickson and Steveson, the two wrestlers who made headlines with their recent match, join the league.
The Business of Freestyle Wrestling
The Real American Freestyle League will provide more earnings opportunities for freestyle wrestlers, which is a significant step forward for the sport. Hogan has stated that the league will not interfere with college, national, or international competitions, and will allow college athletes to participate in the league through name, image, and likeness deals. The league has also secured several sponsors, including Real American Beer, Left Lane Capital, and Cassius. Hogan has expressed confidence in the league’s ability to attract a large following and generate significant revenue.
Expertise and Experience
The Real American Freestyle League has assembled a team of experts and experienced professionals to help guide the league. Eric Bischoff, a former president of World Championship Wrestling, will be the chief media officer. Israel Martinez, a renowned wrestling coach, will be the chief operating officer.
Conclusion
The Real American Freestyle League is poised to revolutionize the sport of freestyle wrestling. With its strong lineup of wrestlers, innovative approach to promotions, and experienced team behind it, the league is set to take the sport to new heights. As Hogan himself said, “I see this as an opportunity for me to get involved, to get back, quit sitting on the couch, to get involved with a bunch of powerful athletes that I can relate to as far as championship material, guys that are on top of their game, and I just couldn’t pass on it.”
Key Features of the Real American Freestyle League
- Single matches at eight men’s and four women’s weight classes
- First event scheduled for Aug. 30 in Cleveland
- Strong lineup of wrestlers, including Kennedy Blades, Zahid Valencia, and Ben Askren
- More earnings opportunities for freestyle wrestlers
- Secured several sponsors, including Real American Beer, Left Lane Capital, and Cassius
| Eric Bischoff | Chief Media Officer |
| Israel Martinez | Chief Operating Officer |
What’s Next for the Real American Freestyle League?
The future of the Real American Freestyle League is bright, with several events planned for the coming months. The league will continue to grow and evolve, providing a platform for freestyle wrestlers to showcase their skills and compete against each other in a more structured environment. As the league moves forward, it will be exciting to see how it impacts the sport of freestyle wrestling. With its strong lineup of wrestlers and innovative approach to promotions, the Real American Freestyle League is poised to take the sport to new heights.