Abu Dhabi to Host First International RAF NEXT GEN Wrestling Tournament

Young Wrestlers to Compete on an International Stage

Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome hundreds of young athletes for the first international edition of Real American Freestyle’s (RAF) NEXT GEN wrestling tournament in the Middle East.

The event is being organised in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the UAE Wrestling Federation.

The competition will make its international debut on November 14, 2026.

It aims to give emerging wrestlers an opportunity to compete against talented athletes from different countries.

The tournament also reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing focus on hosting major international sporting events.

Competition Dates and Venues Announced

The two-day tournament will begin with preliminary competitions at NYU Abu Dhabi on November 14.

The championship finals are scheduled for November 15 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.

Finalists will have the opportunity to compete at the same venue hosting the main RAF Abu Dhabi event.

The tournament will feature four age categories: under-11, under-13, under-15 and under-17. Girls’ divisions will also be included in the under-13 and under-15 categories.

A New Platform for Emerging Wrestling Talent

RAF NEXT GEN is designed to help young athletes develop their skills and gain experience in organised wrestling competitions.

Participants will have opportunities to earn ranking points and potentially qualify for future RAF championship events.

Registration has opened across weight categories, although places in each division are limited.

The initiative is intended to create a pathway for promising wrestlers to progress within the sport.

It also gives young competitors an opportunity to experience an international sporting environment.

Five-Year Partnership Supports Wrestling Development

The tournament forms part of a five-year partnership between RAF, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the UAE Wrestling Federation.

The collaboration aims to strengthen wrestling opportunities for athletes in the UAE and attract international competitors to the capital.

The youth competition will take place alongside the wider RAF Abu Dhabi event scheduled for November 14.

Together, the events are expected to bring additional attention to wrestling and combat sports in the emirate.

The initiative marks a significant step in expanding youth wrestling opportunities across the region.