Former Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson will face UFC veteran Alexander Romanov in a professional freestyle wrestling match at RAF09 on May 30. Steveson currently holds a 3-0 MMA record, while Romanov has competed 25 times in MMA with a 21-4 record including a 7-3 run in the UFC. The bout represents a crossover between MMA and professional wrestling for both athletes. This match will headline the Real American Freestyle event.
Former Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson and UFC heavyweight Alexander Romanov are set to meet in a professional freestyle wrestling match at the Real American Freestyle event on May 30, with the bout headlining RAF09.
Steveson arrives with a 3-0 MMA record and the prestige of Olympic gold, making this crossover bout a showcase for one of amateur wrestling's most decorated recent stars. The match represents a natural extension of his competitive career as he bridges the worlds of MMA and professional freestyle wrestling.
Romanov, known as "King Kong," is a 34-year-old heavyweight from Moldova who has compiled a 19-3 record across his MMA career. Standing six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach, he is a physical presence in the division and brings significant combat sports experience to this wrestling context. His MMA background includes substantial time competing at the highest level of the sport, giving him a well-rounded base heading into a pure wrestling format.
Why it matters
- Steveson's unbeaten MMA record and Olympic pedigree make him one of the most intriguing prospects in combat sports, and this match puts his wrestling credentials on display against a seasoned opponent.
- Romanov's MMA experience gives the bout competitive legitimacy, as he is no stranger to high-level grappling exchanges.
- The crossover format tests whether elite freestyle wrestling can attract mainstream attention by blending MMA talent with traditional amateur wrestling competition.
- The result could shape both men's profiles heading into their respective MMA and combat sports pursuits.
