Olympic heavyweight champion Gable Steveson has inked a massive deal with Real American Freestyle wrestling, sending shockwaves through the combat sports world. The 25-year-old powerhouse brings star quality and technical brilliance to RAF’s growing roster.
Gable Steveson Signs Professional Wrestling Deal
This signing marks a defining moment for both parties. Steveson claimed Olympic gold for the United States at Tokyo 2021 and twice earned the prestigious Hodge Trophy as America’s top collegiate wrestler whilst competing for the University of Minnesota. Meanwhile, RAF continues building momentum as the premier destination for elite freestyle competitors.
“Signing an athlete of Gable’s calibre is a defining moment that reinforces our mission to be the professional home for the world’s best,” declared RAF CEO and co-founder Chad Bronstein. “Gable is a once-in-a-generation talent who brings a level of star power and technical dominance that perfectly aligns with the high-stakes atmosphere we’ve built.”
Hendrickson Rematch Creates Blockbuster Potential
However, the real fireworks come from potential matchmaking. Wyatt Hendrickson stunned the wrestling world by defeating Steveson for the 2025 national title, snapping his remarkable 70-match winning streak with a dramatic 5-4 victory. That late takedown heard round the wrestling community could now set up a massive professional rematch, as Hendrickson currently holds RAF’s heavyweight championship.
Furthermore, Steveson’s 1.4 million Instagram followers and signature backflip celebrations will amplify RAF’s already impressive numbers. The promotion has surpassed eight figures in ticketing and merchandise revenue whilst generating 750 million organic social media views in just one year.
Steveson’s journey to this moment reads like a Hollywood script. After leaving his wrestling shoes at centre mat following his second Minnesota championship, he ventured into WWE’s developmental NXT brand before attempting an NFL career with the Buffalo Bills. His return to collegiate wrestling in 2024-25 went perfectly until Hendrickson’s shocking upset, after which he seamlessly transitioned to mixed martial arts with three first-round knockouts in as many bouts.
The heavyweight will make his RAF debut this May at a location yet to be confirmed. Expect fireworks when this Olympic champion steps onto professional wrestling’s biggest stage.
