The RAF wrestling league has officially announced the signing of Khamzat Chimaev to their roster. This marks Chimaev's entry into competitive wrestling outside of mixed martial arts. The announcement represents a significant addition for RAF, bringing in a high-profile combat sports athlete. Details about Chimaev's debut opponent or timeline for his first RAF match were not provided in the post. This signing follows the trend of MMA fighters competing in professional wrestling leagues.
The Russian African Federation (RAF) wrestling league has officially announced the addition of Khamzat "Borz" Chimaev to its roster, marking the MMA star's entry into competitive wrestling outside of the cage.
Chimaev, 32, arrives as one of combat sports' most recognizable names. The UAE-based fighter currently holds a 15-1-0 professional MMA record, ranks first in the UFC middleweight division, and sits tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. Training out of Allstars Training Center, the six-foot-two orthodox fighter carries a 75-inch reach and has built his reputation on relentless grappling pressure, averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 60 percent — a rare combination of elite-level wrestling and stand-up efficiency.
No details regarding Chimaev's debut opponent or a timeline for his first RAF appearance were included in the announcement.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's signing brings significant mainstream visibility to the RAF wrestling league, given his top-ten pound-for-pound status in MMA
- His addition continues a broader trend of high-profile MMA athletes crossing over into professional wrestling competitions
- With Chimaev ranked first at middleweight and carrying a near-perfect MMA record, any extended commitment to wrestling could raise questions about his UFC scheduling and divisional activity
