Decision Made on Hulk Hogan's Wrestling Series Following Death
Hulk Hogan's wrestling legacy lives on following his death Thursday, and so does his streaming wrestling series.
Real American Freestyle which was founded earlier this year by Hogan, Chad Bronstein and Terri Francis, is set to debut its first event on FOX Nation on August 30. The show will go on, according to TMZ, even after Hogan's passing at the age of 71 of an apparent cardiac arrest.
"The streaming platform's decision to move forward with the broadcast doubles as a tribute to Hogan's enduring legacy," TMZ said. "FOX Nation will stream 'RAF01,' the org's debut event, August 30th at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland. A second event is slated for this Fall."
The pro wrestling league's first show is already "in the can." FOX Nation officially inked an exclusive deal with Real American Freestyle earlier this week.
“Real American Freestyle is creating something that’s never been done before, and we needed a partner that understood that and could build with us,” said Hogan, the league's commissioner, just days before his death. “Fox Nation is synergistic with our brand, they appreciate the importance of bringing this sport to the masses, and they believe in our goal.”
Real American Freestyle is designed to allow current NCAA wrestlers, along with former collegiate and Olympic competitors, the chance to profit from their sport.
"Wrestling has always been about grit, sacrifice and raw determination. But for too long, athletes who give everything to the sport have not had an opportunity to pursue professional careers," the series' official website says. "Real American Freestyle was built to change that – to provide a platform for the best wrestlers in the world. Real American Freestyle is the first unscripted pro wrestling league for the best athletes in the world."
FOX Nation President Lauren Petterson mourned Hogan in a statement to TMZ this afternoon.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Hulk Hogan, who single-handedly shaped the world of professional wrestling and inspired millions around the world. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and his many fans," Petterson said.