The upcoming Real American Freestyle (RAF) event, the fifth in its series, promises an exciting spectacle by featuring a roster of well-known figures from the UFC and other combat sports. This gathering aims to spotlight freestyle wrestling, drawing considerable attention through high-profile matchups. Among the most anticipated is a clash between Colby Covington and Luke Rockhold, both celebrated names in mixed martial arts, who will revisit their wrestling roots on the mat. Covington, with a distinguished wrestling background from the University of Iowa and Oregon State, enters as a more decorated wrestler, having secured two Pac-10 conference championships. Rockhold, despite primarily focusing on BJJ and MMA after high school, brings significant experience and a size advantage, competing at 190 lbs against the former interim UFC Welterweight champion.
Beyond the main event, the card is packed with competitive bouts that further underscore the event's commitment to showcasing top-tier talent. The co-main event, originally slated for the RAF 205 lbs title, featured active UFC fighter Bo Nickal against the Olympic silver medalist and former World Champion, Yoel Romero. Although this particular matchup saw a last-minute change, the event continues to attract elite athletes. Additionally, Olympic bronze medalist Kyle Dake is set to challenge Mahamedkhabib Kadzimahamedau for the RAF 190 lbs title, in a rematch that promises to be fiercely contested. The event also includes Arman Tsarukyan from the UFC, taking on Bellator veteran Lance Palmer, ensuring a diverse and action-packed fight card for combat sports enthusiasts.
This event, taking place on January 10, 2026, at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, represents a significant moment for freestyle wrestling, bridging the gap between traditional wrestling and the broader combat sports community. By inviting renowned fighters to compete under freestyle rules, RAF not only entertains but also inspires a new generation of athletes and fans, demonstrating the fundamental importance of wrestling in combat sports. The event fosters a spirit of healthy competition and mutual respect among different combat disciplines, promoting the values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. It serves as a reminder that the foundation of many successful combat careers lies in the rigorous training and strategic thinking inherent in wrestling.