Overview
- Askren announced the booking on Monday on The Ariel Helwani Show and RAF confirmed the match, which is set for July 18 at the UWM Panther Arena in Milwaukee as part of RAF 11.
- The bout is a freestyle wrestling match that will stream on FOX Nation and sits on a card headlined by Arman Tsarukyan vs. Colby Covington, giving RAF a high‑profile co‑main event.
- Less than a year ago Askren suffered severe pneumonia, spent weeks in a medically induced coma, underwent a double lung transplant on June 30, 2025, and lost roughly 50 pounds during recovery.
- Askren says he has returned to regular coaching and training, obtained medical clearance to resume competition, and intends the July 18 appearance to be a one‑off final match before focusing on family, coaching and RAF.
- Belal Muhammad is a former UFC welterweight champion who competes in MMA on June 6 and whose participation creates reputational stakes for both fighters and could affect perceptions of RAF as it leans on crossover names to grow.