Khamzat Chimaev has officially signed a contract with the RAF wrestling league. The announcement confirms his involvement in competitive wrestling outside of MMA. No specific opponent or debut date was mentioned in the announcement. The post invites fans to speculate on potential matchups for Chimaev in the wrestling format. This move adds another dimension to Chimaev's combat sports career.
Khamzat Chimaev has signed a contract with the RAF Wrestling League, the organization confirmed, marking a significant step into competitive grappling outside of mixed martial arts for the undefeated middleweight contender. No debut date or specific opponent was named in the announcement.
Chimaev, 32, carries one of the most imposing profiles in the UFC middleweight division. Known by his nickname "Borz," the UAE-based fighter holds a 15-1 record and is currently ranked first in the middleweight division and tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. He trains out of Allstars Training Center and brings elite wrestling credentials to every outing. His numbers inside the octagon reflect that: he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes while also generating 4.04 significant strikes landed per minute at a striking accuracy of 60 percent, a combination that has overwhelmed nearly every opponent he has faced. Standing six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach, he presents a physically imposing presence on the mat as well.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's participation adds a high-profile name to the RAF Wrestling League, raising the promotion's visibility.
- His elite takedown rate in MMA suggests a natural transition to competitive wrestling formats.
- The move adds a new competitive dimension to his career without directly affecting his UFC divisional standing, at least until further details emerge.
