Gable Steveson Signs with Real American Freestyle
Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson has signed with Real American Freestyle (RAF), the company announced on Wednesday. Steveson, who won the gold medal for the United States at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, was awarded the Hodge Trophy, recognizing him as the best college wrestler in the country on two occasions during his time at the University of Minnesota. The 25-year-old heavyweight fighter will debut in RAF in May, at a location yet to be determined.Real American Freestyle was co-founded last year by Hulk Hogan to provide a new space where competitors can earn income in wrestling and elevate the sport globally. The concept has worked, as the company claims to have surpassed eight figures in total revenue from ticket and merchandise sales, and has attracted 750 million organic views on social media in its first year. These figures should increase significantly. Steveson, who has 1.4 million followers on Instagram, is known for his spectacular backflips after his biggest victories.The signing of Steveson opens the possibility of a rematch with Wyatt Hendrickson. Hendrickson defeated Steveson to win the national title in 2025, an unexpected result that drew national attention. Hendrickson’s late takedown in the final gave him the 5-4 victory and ended Steveson’s winning streak, which extended to 70 matches. Hendrickson signed with RAF last year and is the current heavyweight champion. Steveson has been active in the last five years. After his second collegiate championship at Minnesota, he left his shoes in the center of the mat to symbolize his retirement. He joined World Wrestling Entertainment and performed mainly in NXT, the company’s developmental brand. Following his departure, he tried out for the Buffalo Bills of the NFL, but did not make the roster. He returned to Minnesota in 2024-25, remaining undefeated until his loss to Hendrickson. After that, he had a 3-0 record in mixed martial arts fights, with three knockouts in the first round.Signing an athlete of Gable’s caliber is a defining moment that reinforces our mission to be the professional home of the best in the world. Gable is a unique talent who brings a level of stardom and technical mastery that aligns perfectly with the high-competition environment we have built.
Chad Bronstein, CEO and co-founder of RAF
