Ben Askren vs Belal Muhammad: What Is RAF and Why Is the Fight Turning Heads?
Less than a year after undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant, former UFC star Ben Askren is set to return to competition in one of the most surprising combat sports stories of 2026.
Askren has been announced for a matchup against fellow UFC veteran Belal Muhammad at RAF 11 on July 18. The bout will serve as the co-main event of the card and has already generated significant discussion among fight fans due to Askren’s remarkable recovery journey.
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What Is RAF?
RAF, short for Real American Freestyle, is a wrestling-based promotion backed by former WWE and NCAA wrestling standout Hulk Hogan and veteran wrestling coach Eric Bischoff. The organization aims to showcase high-level wrestling competition in a professional event format, bringing together elite wrestlers and combat sports athletes.
Unlike MMA, competitors are not striking each other. Instead, the focus is on takedowns, control, technique and wrestling dominance, making it an ideal setting for accomplished grapplers such as Askren and Muhammad.
The promotion has attracted attention by signing recognizable names from wrestling, mixed martial arts and other combat sports backgrounds.
Why Is This Fight Such a Big Deal?
The biggest storyline surrounding the matchup is Askren’s return. In 2025, the former Bellator and ONE Championship welterweight champion underwent a double lung transplant after a serious health battle that threatened his life.
Many believed Askren’s competitive career was over. However, the 40-year-old has made a remarkable recovery and is now preparing to step back onto the mat against another elite wrestler.
Muhammad, meanwhile, is widely regarded as one of the strongest wrestlers in MMA. Before becoming a UFC champion contender, he built his game around relentless pressure, conditioning and grappling.
The matchup therefore pits two highly accomplished wrestlers against each other while also serving as a testament to Askren’s determination.
What Have They Said?
Following the announcement, fans were quick to praise Askren’s comeback, with many calling it one of the most inspiring returns in recent combat sports memory.
The former UFC fighter has not hidden his excitement about competing again, while Muhammad will have an opportunity to test his wrestling skills against one of the most decorated grapplers of his generation.
Regardless of the result, Askren’s appearance at RAF 11 is already being viewed as a remarkable chapter in a career that many thought had come to an end.
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