PFL news

Ray Lewis in Talks with Real American Freestyle Wrestling

September 18, 2026Carlos Mendoza1 мин

NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis is reportedly in talks to compete with Real American Freestyle (RAF) Wrestling. The report comes from MMA Fighting.

Lewis, 51 and retired from the NFL after a 17-season career with the Baltimore Ravens, could compete before the end of 2026, according to the report.

RAF co-founders Chad Bronstein and Izzy Martinez confirmed discussions are ongoing. They told MMA Fighting that former UFC welterweight champion and two-time RAF competitor Tyron Woodley is involved in facilitating the potential deal.

Lewis has a wrestling background. He was a state champion at Kathleen High School in Lakeland, Florida, winning the 189-pound weight class in 1993.

RAF Wrestling was established to provide a professional platform for amateur, collegiate, Olympic, and mixed martial arts wrestlers. The organization aims to offer financial compensation, something typically unavailable in traditional amateur wrestling.