Kurt Angle Joins Real American Freestyle as Commentator and Partner for RAF01

Kurt Angle is stepping back into the wrestling world—but this time, he’s trading suplexes for a headset.

The Olympic gold medalist and WWE Hall of Famer has officially signed on with Real American Freestyle (RAF) as a commentator, analyst, and partner for their first live event, RAF01, going down August 30 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, OH. The announcement was made by RAF, the new freestyle wrestling promotion led by Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, Izzy Martinez, and Chad Bronstein.

Angle will be joining Chael Sonnen and Bubba Jenkins on the commentary team, bringing his legendary insight and edge to RAF’s debut show. The event will feature unscripted freestyle wrestling with a modern twist—aiming to reshape how fans view the sport.

Hogan didn’t hold back when speaking on Angle’s role with the company. “Kurt Angle is a living legend. He’s achieved every accomplishment he could in wrestling, so it makes sense that he’s partnering with Real American Freestyle as we actively change the name of the game across the sport,” said the RAF commissioner.

Angle shared his own excitement, pointing to his roots in freestyle wrestling and the opportunity to support the next generation of athletes. “I grew up freestyle wrestling, and achieved the highest level of success in the sport. I couldn’t be prouder to support athletes at all levels of their careers and partner with Real American Freestyle to make it happen,” Angle said.

The event marks a new chapter for Angle, who formally retired from in-ring competition at WrestleMania 35. With over 21 pro wrestling championships and gold medal glory in 1996 despite a broken neck, Angle’s credibility in the combat sports world is unmatched. He brings decades of experience and unmatched storytelling to the booth—and with a cast like Sonnen and Jenkins flanking him, things are guaranteed to get loud.

RAF01 is shaping up to be more than just an event—it’s being pitched as a full entertainment experience, with high-impact action and a fresh production style. With Angle now involved, the debut has even more heat behind it.

Will Kurt Angle’s return to freestyle wrestling in this new role bring a fresh chapter to his career—or is this just a nostalgia play? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know if you’ll be watching RAF01 on August 30.