The Russian Amateur Fighting (RAF) wrestling league has announced the signing of Khamzat Chimaev. This marks Chimaev's entry into the competitive wrestling circuit under the RAF banner. The announcement did not specify contract details or when Chimaev would make his debut. No information was provided about potential opponents or match scheduling. This represents an expansion of Chimaev's combat sports activities beyond MMA.
The Russian Amateur Fighting wrestling league has announced it has signed Khamzat Chimaev, bringing the elite MMA contender into the competitive wrestling circuit. The RAF made the announcement without disclosing contract terms, a debut date, or potential opponents, leaving the scope of Chimaev's involvement unclear for now.
Chimaev, 32, is currently ranked first in the UFC middleweight division and sits at number ten in the pound-for-pound standings. Fighting out of the UAE and training with Allstars Training Center, the orthodox-stance fighter carries a professional MMA record of 15-1. His grappling credentials are well-established inside the cage, where he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside 1.8 submission attempts in the same span. He also brings a striking game that lands at a rate of 4.04 significant strikes per minute with a 60 percent accuracy rate — numbers that reflect his well-rounded, high-pressure style across six feet two inches of frame and a 75-inch reach.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's move into amateur wrestling represents a meaningful expansion of his combat sports portfolio beyond MMA competition.
- His elite takedown volume suggests a natural fit for the wrestling format, though how those skills translate to a dedicated wrestling ruleset remains to be seen.
- The RAF signing adds an internationally recognized name to the league, potentially raising its profile at a time when crossover combat sports ventures are drawing wider attention.
- No timeline or competitive schedule has been confirmed, so the practical impact on his UFC middleweight campaign is unknown at this stage.
