The RAF wrestling league officially announced the signing of MMA fighter Khamzat Chimaev. No additional details about the contract terms, debut date, or potential opponents were provided in the brief announcement. This marks Chimaev's entry into professional wrestling competition outside of MMA. The signing represents a significant addition to the RAF roster. Further information about Chimaev's wrestling schedule is expected to follow.
The Russian Association of Freestyle Wrestling (RAF) has officially announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev, marking the fighter's entry into professional wrestling competition outside of mixed martial arts.
Chimaev, known by his nickname "Borz," carries a 15-1-0 professional MMA record and currently holds the number one ranking in the UFC middleweight division, as well as the tenth spot in the pound-for-pound rankings. The 32-year-old, who represents the United Arab Emirates and trains out of Allstars Training Center in Sweden, stands six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach. His MMA numbers reflect an elite grappling foundation, with 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside striking accuracy of 60 percent and 4.04 significant strikes landed per minute — a combination that has made him one of the most well-rounded fighters in the sport.
No contract terms, debut date, or potential opponents were disclosed alongside the announcement. The RAF indicated that further details regarding Chimaev's wrestling schedule are expected to follow.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's elite takedown volume and grappling credentials make him a credible addition to any professional wrestling roster
- The signing raises questions about how a dual-sport commitment could affect his UFC middleweight schedule
- As the number one-ranked middleweight and a top-ten pound-for-pound fighter, any absence from MMA competition carries significant divisional implications
