Gable Steveson, the Olympic gold medalist, has signed a multi-match deal with Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAF), marking a significant move in his evolving combat sports career.
The agreement, first reported by Ariel Helwani, will see Steveson debut for RAF on May 30 in Dallas, Texas. RAF, a relatively new promotion launched in 2025, broadcasts its events on Fox Nation and features Eric Bischoff among its key figures.
The Rise of Freestyle Wrestling Promotions
Steveson’s move to RAF highlights a growing trend: the emergence of professional freestyle wrestling promotions. These promotions aim to capitalize on the popularity of amateur wrestling and offer a platform for athletes to showcase their skills in a more entertainment-focused format. RAF is positioned to fill a niche between traditional wrestling and mixed martial arts.
Steveson’s Trajectory: From Olympics to MMA and Beyond
Steveson’s career path has been anything but conventional. After winning gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he signed with WWE but his time there was limited. He also explored a potential career in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills. He has since compiled a 3-0 record in MMA, with all wins coming by first-round knockout, and a separate win under Dirty Boxing Championship rules.
The Allure of Crossover Athletes
Steveson represents a highly sought-after type of athlete: one with proven success in multiple combat sports. His Olympic pedigree, combined with his burgeoning MMA career, makes him a valuable asset to any promotion. The potential for a rematch with Wyatt Hendrickson, who defeated Steveson in the NCAA finals, adds another layer of intrigue.
The Future of Combat Sports and Athlete Flexibility
Steveson’s situation exemplifies a broader trend of athletes exploring multiple combat sports disciplines. Contracts are increasingly being structured to allow athletes to compete in different promotions, recognizing the benefits of cross-promotion and athlete visibility. RAF’s contract allows for crossover into MMA, meaning a future move to the UFC remains a possibility.
The UFC’s heavyweight division, currently lacking prominent young talent, is a potential destination for Steveson. Joe Rogan has even publicly predicted Steveson will become UFC heavyweight champion.
What This Means for RAF
Signing Steveson is a major coup for RAF. It instantly elevates the promotion’s profile and attracts attention from wrestling and MMA fans alike. RAF CEO Chad Bronstein stated Steveson is a “generational athlete” and a “huge star” for the sport.

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