Parris vs. Snyder Set for RAF02: Co-Main Event

Just months ago, Mason Parris had traded his wrestling shoes for cleats, landing a spot on the Chargers’ practice squad. But now, the 2024 Olympian is back where he belongs—on the mat, chasing down one of the biggest names in wrestling.

Parris was a three-time All-State football player in Indiana, but his true love has always been wrestling. And after coming up short of Olympic gold in Paris, he’s laser-focused on one thing: taking home an RAF championship belt. 

To do that, he has to go through Kyle Snyder. In Snyder’s own backyard.

Kyle Snyder is one of the most accomplished wrestlers in U.S. history. Olympic gold in 2016. Multiple World titles. A rivalry with Russia’s Abdulrashid Sadulaev that helped define the last decade in international wrestling.

He made his first World Team as a college sophomore and hasn’t looked back since. A three-time NCAA champ for Ohio State and a global force ever since, Snyder enters this bout with experience, composure and a Penn State crowd firmly behind him.

Even with Parris storming back into the spotlight, Snyder is still in his prime, still dangerous and still the guy to beat on American soil.

Rivals Reunited: Buckeye vs. Wolverine

It doesn’t get more classic than this—Ohio State vs. Michigan, only now it’s on the professional stage.

Parris, the former Wolverine, is no stranger to Snyder or the Nittany Lion crowd. He showed up at RAF01 to call his shot. He wants the belt. He wants Wyatt Hendrickson. But first, he has to get past Snyder.

Snyder may not be the current champ, but he is a gatekeeper.

What to Watch For

• Parris’ physicality: Look for him to push the pace early and control ties with underhooks.
• Snyder’s speed: His reattacks and short offense are elite. If Parris overcommits, Snyder will make him pay.
• The crowd factor: Penn State fans are ruthless. This will feel like a home dual for Snyder.
• Tactical hand fighting: Expect heavy contact early and a battle for wrist control and inside position.
  Momentum moments: If either man scores big early, it could open up the match.
  
  

If Parris wins, it’ll shake up the rankings and fuel speculation about future Team USA lineups ahead of 2028. If Snyder holds strong, he sends a message to the entire division: the crown isn’t changing hands yet.

And with Wyatt Hendrickson holding the belt, this bout could determine the next title challenger.

RAF02 is giving fans what they’ve always wanted—Olympic-level matchups on demand, not just every four years.