Real American Freestyle (RAF) announced it will host its first international wrestling event in Tbilisi, Georgia, on July 11, 2026 [1, 2]. The event marks RAF's debut outside North America.
The lineup includes former UFC champions Merab Dvalishvili and Henry Cejudo [1, 2]. Upcoming RAF events will also feature MMA stars Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington [1, 2].
RAF aims to create a competitive platform where amateur and collegiate wrestlers can turn professional [1, 2]. Its rules consist of three two-minute rounds with a point system. Matches can end instantly if a wrestler pins an opponent’s shoulders to the mat [1, 2].
Chad Bronstein, RAF CEO and co-founder, said, "Wrestling has always been a global sport. What it has lacked is a global platform. RAF was built to change that. Georgia is home to some of the greatest wrestlers in the world and one of the proudest wrestling cultures anywhere. We couldn't imagine a better place to launch our international expansion" [1].
Tevdore Makashvilli, RAF’s country lead for Georgia, commented, "Our athletes have spent decades proving themselves on the Olympic and world stage, and now RAF is bringing a new level of opportunity, visibility, and excitement to the sport." He described wrestling as "a part of Georgia's identity," and expressed hope the event will benefit former Olympic wrestlers [1, 2].
RAF publicly announced the Tbilisi event on June 3, 2026 [1, 2]. The event provides a new professional stage for wrestlers in a country with a rich wrestling heritage.
The scheduled date for the event, July 11, 2026, remains the focal point for RAF’s international expansion efforts [1, 2].