Real American Freestyle hits the mat in Cleveland with Hulk Hogan tribute

Catch up quick: RAF was the brainchild of the late pro wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and Cleveland native Chad Bronstein, who previously partnered on Hogan's Real American Beer.

• The duo chose Cleveland for RAF's debut after a successful promotional tour for Real American Beer in Northeast Ohio this past January.

Between the lines: They announced RAF in May with a roster of wrestlers that includes UFC fighter Bo Nickal, Olympic gold medalist Sara Hildebrandt and Ohio State University alum Lance Palmer.

• A broadcast deal with Fox Nation and partnership with combat sports apparel brand Takedown soon followed.

Yes, but: Things hit a snag when Hogan died last month of a heart attack.

What they're saying: "Grieving has been unique for me because Hulk was one of my closest friends," Bronstein tells Axios.

• "I have to keep these businesses we created going because that's what he would want."

State of play: RAF has several events lined up this weekend, including a special tribute to Hogan as part of Saturday's festivities.

• RAF will also host an official press conference Friday afternoon at Barley House and a party featuring Hogan's son, Nick Hogan, at FWD Day + Nightclub Friday night.

If you go: Saturday's event starts at 7pm and features 10 wrestling matches.

• Tickets start at $36. It will stream live on Fox Nation.

What's next: Bronstein says RAF's next two events will take place in November and December.

• Locations will be announced soon.