Former and future UFC fighters Gable Steveson and Alexander Romanov will compete against each other in a professional freestyle wrestling match at RAF09 on May 30. Steveson holds an undefeated 3-0 MMA record, while Romanov has a 21-4 overall record with a 7-3 UFC record. This matchup represents an interesting crossover between MMA and wrestling, pitting two fighters with significant grappling credentials against each other in a pure wrestling context. The bout will take place outside of the UFC octagon in a specialized wrestling event.
Two fighters with heavyweight grappling pedigrees are set to collide outside the MMA cage, as Gable Steveson and Alexander Romanov will meet in a professional freestyle wrestling match at RAF09 on May 30.
Alexander Romanov, known as "King Kong," brings a verified MMA record of 19-3 to the bout. The 34-year-old Moldovan heavyweight stands six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach and has built his fighting reputation almost entirely on grappling dominance. His striking output is minimal by design — his game has always been about controlling and submitting opponents on the mat rather than trading on the feet.
Steveson, a decorated amateur wrestler and former collegiate champion, holds an undefeated 3-0 MMA record and has been linked to the UFC. The wrestling match at RAF09 gives him a high-profile stage before his expected transition into professional mixed martial arts becomes fully realized.
Why it matters
- Romanov's grappling-heavy style makes him a credible threat in a pure wrestling format, even against an elite amateur wrestling background like Steveson's
- The bout draws attention to RAF09 as a crossover event bridging MMA and competitive wrestling
- Results could influence the perceived readiness and marketability of both men heading into future MMA commitments
- Steveson's undefeated MMA record remains intact regardless of outcome, but a strong showing against a seasoned professional would reinforce his credentials
The matchup is a natural one on paper. Romanov has made his living forcing fights to the floor, while Steveson's entire athletic identity is built around wrestling. A pure freestyle format removes striking variables entirely and strips the contest down to where both men are most comfortable.
