Real American Freestyle Wrestling, co-founded by Bischoff and the late WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan in April 2025, aims to create a fresh platform for both male and female amateur wrestlers — many from collegiate and Olympic backgrounds — to compete professionally in a genuine freestyle environment, away from scripted outcomes typical of traditional sports entertainment[1][3]. Bischoff’s role as chief media officer focuses on crafting the production and storytelling that brings these athletes’ journeys to the forefront[1].
Bischoff elaborated, “Amateur wrestlers in particular, they’re just wired differently… I knew there’d be an opportunity to find some interesting characters and interesting people. But wow, was I surprised at just how much character and personality and charisma we have in a lot of these athletes we’re working with,” further emphasizing how these stories will deepen fan engagement with the sport[2]. This approach aligns with RAF’s philosophy to spotlight the wrestlers’ backgrounds and realities much like “The Voice” does for singing talents, providing fans with an authentic connection to the competitors beyond their athletic prowess[3].
Following Hulk Hogan’s passing in July 2025, questions arose about RAF’s future, but Bischoff reassured fans that the promotion will continue forward, including its inaugural event set for August 30, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio, Hogan’s hometown — a pivotal moment to showcase this revolutionary wrestling format[2][3]. The promotion has already secured a broadcast deal with FOX Nation, ensuring the debut event reaches a national audience and signaling confidence in RAF’s potential to reshape wrestling entertainment through its unique authenticity and production[4].
According to sources close to the promotion, RAF is not merely about competition but about telling the stories that define these athletes’ paths, trials, and triumphs — elements that Bischoff and Hogan envisioned as essential to elevating freestyle wrestling in the sporting landscape[3][4]. Israel “Izzy” Martinez, an acclaimed freestyle coach, also brings expertise as RAF’s chief operating officer, adding to the league’s credibility and commitment to excellence[1][3].
Bischoff’s extensive history in wrestling media, notably his time as WCW president and his landmark success competing against WWE’s Monday Night Raw, positions him well to develop RAF’s storytelling component, blending compelling narratives with high-caliber athleticism, thus creating a product that appeals to both hardcore wrestling fans and general sports audiences[5].
In summary, Eric Bischoff’s biggest surprise working with amateur wrestlers in Real American Freestyle Wrestling has been the unexpectedly rich well of character and charisma inherent in these athletes, which the promotion aims to harness and showcase, ultimately elevating the profile of freestyle wrestling through authentic competition and engaging storytelling.
If referencing quotes, please credit “The Ariel Helwani Show” with a h/t to Wrestling Inc.[2].