Hulk Hogan’s New Wrestling Venture May Already Be in Trouble, Backed by Beer, Eric Bischoff, and Big Talk

Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff are back in business, brother—but this time, they’re stepping into a very different kind of ring. Their new project, Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAFW), is aiming to blend amateur wrestling with big personalities, but behind the scenes, industry insiders aren’t sold on its future.

According to Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Hogan got the idea after watching Wyatt Hendrickson defeat Gable Steveson in the 2025 NCAA finals. “When I saw that happen and I saw our President hug him, I went, okay, we are on point, we’re ready to go and instincts have prevailed and I smell victory,” Hogan reportedly said.

The plan? Launch a massive debut event this August in Cleveland with 12 matches featuring both college athletes and seasoned vets. Hogan also teased a potential Hendrickson-Steveson rematch, saying it’s “on the radar,” though neither man is signed yet.

Hogan will serve as RAFW’s commissioner and public face, with Bischoff as Chief Media Officer and businessman Chad Bronstein listed as co-founder. Naturally, Hogan’s Real American Beer will be the title sponsor. “Eric jumped in with both feet… just moving us forward, light years ahead,” Hogan claimed.

But not everyone’s raising a cold one. Some see Hogan as a questionable figurehead due to his ties to “fake wrestling” and controversial reputation. WON speculated the venture may struggle to catch on beyond the over-50 demo.

Former MMA coach Israel Martinez will be RAFW’s Chief Operating Officer. Hogan called him “our linchpin,” citing his experience with Olympic and NCAA talent. But critics believe even with big names involved, past attempts to commercialize amateur wrestling have flopped.

Hogan insists they’re not competing with UFC or WWE. “Our goal is not to be competitive with Dana White… but to be just as big or bigger,” he said. Still, insiders claim the real goal might just be a short-term media deal before the project collapses under financial strain.

“The bigger star you become, the more you win… you’re going to make your money,” Hogan added, believing the promo-heavy model could still sell. But industry experts warn the hype might not match reality unless they find a loyal viewership online.

Whether it’s a passion project or a last-ditch hustle for one last payday, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff are swinging big with Real American Freestyle Wrestling. But with no signed stars, shaky optics, and a concept that’s never really thrived outside the NCAA, the odds are stacked. Still, if there’s anyone who thinks they can leg drop the impossible into existence, it’s the Hulkster.