According to Ariel Helwani, former WWE star Gable Steveson has signed a multi-match deal with Real American Freestyle (RAF) and will make his debut for the promotion at RAF 9. Helwani also mentioned that RAF is “going after some big names” to compete against Steveson. He noted that Steveson’s first opponent will not be RAF Heavyweight Champion Wyatt Hendrickson, who defeated Steveson in the final match of the 2025 NCAA Wrestling National Championships. It was indicated that RAF will be “building up to that” matchup.
In addition to being a former WWE star, Steveson is an Olympic gold medalist. He was released from WWE in May 2024 and briefly pursued a career in professional football before making his MMA debut at LFA 217 in September of last year. He currently has a professional MMA record of 3 wins and 0 losses.
Real American Freestyle (RAF) was founded in April 2023 and broadcasts on the Fox Nation streaming service. WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff serves as the Chief Marketing Officer for the company. RAF held its first event, RAF 1, in August of last year, and the most recent event, RAF 6, took place in February, headlined by a match between UFC alumni Henry Cejudo and Urijah Faber. RAF 9 is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 30, 2024, in Dallas, Texas.
Breaking: Gable Stevenson has signed a multi-match deal with @RAFWrestlingUSA.
He will make his debut at RAF09 on May 30 in Dallas, Texas, on @foxnation.
Opponent TBD, but I hear they’re going after some big names. pic.twitter.com/HNuFEsEds5— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) March 25, 2026
