Hulk Hogan Launches New Wrestling League as Commissioner

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Hulk Hogan, legendary professional wrestler, announced on Wednesday that he will be the commissioner of a new wrestling league called Real American Freestyle, set to debut on August 30 in Cleveland. The league aims to elevate freestyle wrestling by creating more opportunities for wrestlers to earn income.

Hogan, who has experience in promoting wrestling, believes that recent events in the sport have positioned freestyle wrestling for greater popularity. His confidence surged after Oklahoma State University’s Wyatt Hendrickson won the national championship by defeating Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson. Following his victory, Hendrickson shared a moment with former President Donald Trump, furthering the mainstream appeal of wrestling.

“When I saw that happen and I saw our President hug him, I went, OK, we are on point, we’re ready to go,” Hogan said. “I smell victory.” Hogan aims to provide financial opportunities in a sport that historically has lacked them.

Hogan initially worried that freestyle wrestlers lacked the personality to attract audiences. However, he soon discovered many of them possess the charisma needed to draw fans. “Dude, they’ve all got that edge,” he said, highlighting their awareness of branding and personal marketing.

The Real American Freestyle league will feature competitions for eight weight classes for men and four for women. Kennedy Blades, who won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, will lead the women’s division. On the men’s side, Ben Askren and Zahid Valencia are expected to participate.

Notably, Hogan’s Real American Beer serves as the title sponsor, with Left Lane Capital as the financial backer. Other sponsors include Cassius, ensuring considerable support for the league. Hogan emphasized that college athletes will have the opportunity to participate without conflicting with existing competitions.

He has also enlisted Eric Bischoff, a former executive for World Championship Wrestling, as chief media officer to assist in promoting the league. Israel Martinez, an accomplished wrestling coach, is the chief operating officer and played a key role in securing USA Wrestling’s endorsement for the league.

This new venture represents Hogan’s transition from traditional pro wrestling to something he perceives as an authentic wrestling format. “I see this as an opportunity for me to get involved,” he stated. “I couldn’t pass on it.”