The energy inside Mullett Arena at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, was absolutely electric on the evening of March 1, 2026, as the Real American Freestyle (RAF) 06 wrestling tournament unfolded before a roaring crowd and a global audience tuning in via FOX Nation. Wrestling fans and MMA enthusiasts alike were treated to a star-studded lineup featuring some of the most decorated names in combat sports, with the event living up to its billing as a true showcase of world-class talent and high drama on the mat.
The anticipation for RAF 06 had been building for weeks, with the promise of seeing former UFC champions, Olympic medalists, and rising stars all converging for a night of intense freestyle wrestling. The main event drew particular attention, as former Olympic gold medalist and two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo squared off against the legendary Urijah Faber, a three-time UFC title challenger and UFC Hall of Famer. Both men brought not only their impressive credentials but also a sense of unfinished business to the mat, setting the stage for a memorable clash.
From the opening whistle, Cejudo demonstrated the technical mastery and relentless drive that have defined his career. He wasted no time imposing his will, using his signature speed and tactical acumen to keep Faber on the defensive. The bout quickly turned into a showcase of Cejudo’s dominance, as he racked up points with precision takedowns and near-falls. By the end, the scoreboard told the story: Cejudo secured a technical fall victory, with the most recent and widely reported score standing at 11-0. According to live updates, this emphatic win reaffirmed Cejudo’s place among the sport’s elite, even years after his initial retirement from MMA.
After the match, Cejudo’s confidence was palpable. While no direct quotes were immediately available from the post-match interviews, his performance spoke volumes. The crowd responded in kind, showering the Olympic champion with applause as he celebrated another milestone in his storied career. Faber, ever the competitor, showed his trademark grit, but simply could not match Cejudo’s pace and technical prowess on this occasion.
The co-main event featured another compelling crossover, as Armenian UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan faced off against professional wrestler Georgio Poullas. Both athletes were making their second appearance in the Real American Freestyle league, and expectations were high for an explosive contest. Tsarukyan, known for his dynamic grappling in the UFC, adapted seamlessly to the freestyle format. He edged out Poullas in a tightly contested bout, with the most recent consensus score reported as 6-4. Tsarukyan’s victory underscored his versatility and growing reputation as a force to be reckoned with in multiple combat disciplines.
Elsewhere on the main card, fans were treated to a series of high-octane matchups featuring familiar faces from both the MMA and wrestling worlds. Aljamain Sterling, a former UFC champion, squared off against Benson Henderson, another ex-UFC titleholder, in a bout that was arranged on short notice. Sterling displayed his trademark athleticism and mat savvy, ultimately pinning Henderson in the third period to secure the win. The result was a testament to Sterling’s adaptability and competitive fire, even outside his usual MMA environment.
David Carr, a defending champion and collegiate wrestling standout, continued his dominant run by defeating Bubba Jenkins via technical fall, 13-2, in the second period. Carr’s performance was a masterclass in control and offensive output, cementing his status as one of the top wrestlers on the RAF circuit. Andrew Alirez added to the night’s highlight reel with a technical fall victory over Bryce Meredith, 13-2, at 145 lbs, further showcasing the depth of talent on display.
One of the night’s most dramatic moments came in the unlimited weight class, where Givi Matcharashvili edged out Stephen Buchanan by criteria, 3-3. The match was marred by a possible injury, adding an extra layer of tension as officials deliberated over the final result. Ultimately, Matcharashvili was awarded the win, but both competitors earned the respect of the crowd for their determination and sportsmanship.
The women’s division also saw standout performances, with Lucia Yepez defeating Everest Leydecker by points, 10-3, at 120 lbs. Yepez’s victory was a testament to her technical skill and relentless pace, providing further evidence that the RAF is committed to showcasing world-class talent across all divisions.
Other notable results included Tajmuraz Salkazanov’s 9-0 points victory over Keegan O’Toole at 175 lbs, Evan Wick’s technical fall win over Mahamedkhabib Kadzimahamedau (Kadik) at 13-2, and Zahid Valencia’s dominant 10-0 technical fall over Mahmoud Fawzy in the first period at 190 lbs. Jordan Oliver edged Beau Bartlett by points, 5-3, in a closely contested 145 lbs bout, while Keelon (Mugzy) Jimison delivered a statement win over Clay Guida, earning a 14-3 technical fall in the second period.
Throughout the evening, the FOX Nation broadcast team provided live analysis and highlights, ensuring fans around the world could keep up with the action as it happened. The event’s start time of 9:00 PM local ensured a prime-time audience, while international fans tuned in from as far as Yerevan and Moscow in the early hours of the morning.
The RAF 06 tournament’s unique blend of MMA stars and wrestling specialists created an atmosphere unlike any other, blurring the lines between disciplines and giving fans a taste of the best both worlds have to offer. The event’s success is sure to fuel further interest in crossover competitions, with athletes and promoters alike taking note of the electric response from fans and media.
As the lights dimmed on Mullett Arena and the final results were tallied, the consensus was clear: RAF 06 delivered on its promise of world-class action, unforgettable moments, and a glimpse into the evolving landscape of combat sports. With Henry Cejudo’s triumphant return, Arman Tsarukyan’s continued ascent, and a host of thrilling matchups throughout the card, the Real American Freestyle league has firmly established itself as a must-watch fixture on the sporting calendar. Fans will no doubt be eagerly awaiting announcements for the next event, wondering which stars might step onto the mat next and what new rivalries will emerge.