Michael Chandler, former Bellator champion, has agreed to fight Chad Mendes, who is also a former UFC contender, while awaiting a match with Conor McGregor.
After his setback against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314, where he lost by technical knockout, Chandler has focused on preparing for a potential fight with McGregor, scheduled for the summer of 2026 as part of a special UFC tournament at the White House.
Now the athlete has decided to participate in the new Real American Freestyle (RAF03) event—a league that positions itself as the first unscripted professional wrestling league.
According to official reports, the meeting between Chandler and Mendes will take place on November 29 at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago. The tournament will be broadcast exclusively on the Fox Nation platform, and tickets are already available for purchase.
The tournament organizers noted:
“Legendary UFC fighters Chad Mendes and Michael Chandler have joined our league and will meet at the RAF03 tournament. These MMA champions showcase the possibilities of Real American Freestyle and new opportunities for professional fighters looking to return to their roots in wrestling.”
The RAF league actively collaborates with USA Wrestling, UFC, NIL, MMA organizations, and NCAA, creating opportunities for athletes to participate in events regardless of their contractual obligations.
