Caliendo Stuns Burroughs At RAF 14

Michael Caliendo pulled off one of the biggest upsets in Real American Freestyle Wrestling history Friday night, defeating Olympic champion Jordan Burroughs 8-5 at RAF 14 inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

The former Iowa Hawkeye closed as a massive +550 underdog against Burroughs, who was installed as an -800 favorite. According to MMA Mania, Caliendo dominated the opening two periods and built a commanding 5-0 lead before the American wrestling legend mounted a furious third-period comeback. The four-time NCAA All-American looked faster than the 38-year-old Burroughs throughout the match, beating him to positions and frustrating him with constant movement.

Caliendo Holds Off Burroughs Comeback

Burroughs found his vintage explosion in the final frame and rapidly erased most of the deficit with increased pressure. But Caliendo refused to collapse. The former Iowa standout remained composed, defended the six-time World champion's late attacks and found enough offense of his own to secure the upset.

Burroughs entered RAF 14 with momentum after dominating UFC welterweight contender Sean Brady and Magomed Kurbanaliev in his first two RAF appearances. The 2012 Olympic gold medalist had been openly considering another Olympic run in 2028. Caliendo finished as NCAA runner-up at 165 pounds in 2026 and completed his college career as a two-time national finalist.

The result marks the biggest win of Caliendo's young career and raises questions about Burroughs' future competitive plans heading into 2028.

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• MMA Mania — Highlights! Huge underdog Michael Caliendo upsets Jordan Burroughs at RAF 14