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Real American Freestyle Announces Chael Sonnen as Live Event Commentator and Analyst
The storied MMA fighter joins all-star team ahead of Real American Freestyle’s first event in Cleveland, OH this summer
Tampa, FL (May 22, 2025) – Real American Freestyle, the new, unscripted freestyle wrestling organization, today announced the appointment of storied former MMA championship fighter and broadcast analyst Chael Sonnen, as its live event commentator. Largely regarded as one of the best fighters to ever compete in the UFC, Sonnen brings his unique analysis to the burgeoning brand.
Sonnen joins the elite storytelling of Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, and Israel Martinez, as the team continues to develop the program ahead of their first event on August 30 in Cleveland, OH. Offering a dynamic modern approach to coverage of the sport, Sonnen’s appointment is further emblematic of the innovation Real American Freestyle is pursuing for fans of the sport around the world.
“Not only is Sonnen an incredible talent and fighter, he also encapsulates the unique approach Real American Freestyle is working to bring to its live event coverage, analysis, and commentary,” said Eric Bischoff, Chief Media Officer of Real American Freestyle. “We’re excited for him to bring his fire, passion, and infamy to our live events.”
“I have a great love for this sport, and look forward to being part of the foundational team at Real American Freestyle, “ said Chael Sonnen. “For years no one took freestyle wrestling seriously from a branding standpoint, and I’m excited to influence change in the sport and give these athletes a platform they can build on.”
Sonnen held successful careers at UFC. World Extreme Cage Fighting, and Bellator MMA, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his bout against Anderson Silva at UFC 17, and was Bellator Heavyweight Grand Prix Semifinalist respectively. Often considered one of the best mixed martial artists never to have won a major MMA world championship, Sonnen’s 2010 fight against Silva for the UFC Middleweight Championship earned both fighters numerous accolades including Fight of the Night, and was awarded Fight of the Year by World MMA Awards. Their rematch in 2012 was considered the most highly anticipated bout in UFC history. After retiring, Sonnen served as an analyst and commentator for ESPN, World Series of Fighting, and Bellator MMA.
This announcement follows Real American Freestyle’s viral launch and signing of Evan Wick, Austin Gomez, Real Woods, Will Lewan, Parker Keckeisen, Ben Askren, Kennedy Blades, Zahid Valencia, David Carr, Kyle Dake, Trent Hidlay, Kyle Snyder, and Aaron Brooks. The appointment reflects Real American Freestyle’s commitment to building a top-tier team and further embedding freestyle wrestling into the world’s sports and lifestyle landscape.
For more information on Real American Freestyle, visit: www.realamericanfreestyle.com
About Real American Freestyle
Real American Freestyle is a professional freestyle wrestling league founded by Chad Bronstein, Hulk Hogan, and Israel Martinez. Supported by Left Lane Capital, the league launched in 2025 with a roster of 40 athletes. Featuring a full slate of events throughout its debut season kicking off in Cleveland, OH, Real American Freestyle is focused on freestyle elements of the sport and seeks to provide a platform for athletes to build careers and branding in the space. For more information on Real American Freestyle, please visit www.realamericanfreestyle.com.
