The Real Alliance Federation (RAF) wrestling league has officially announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. This marks Chimaev's entry into competitive wrestling outside of MMA, adding another high-profile UFC fighter to the RAF roster. The announcement follows other notable signings including Arman Tsarukyan, who recently competed and defeated Urijah Faber 13-1. Details about Chimaev's first opponent or competition date were not provided in the initial announcement.
The Real Alliance Federation wrestling league has officially announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat "Borz" Chimaev, marking his entry into competitive wrestling outside of the cage.
Chimaev, 32, represents the United Arab Emirates and trains out of Allstars Training Center in Sweden. Currently ranked first in the UFC middleweight division and tenth in the pound-for-pound standings, he carries a professional MMA record of 15-1. His grappling credentials have long been considered among the most dangerous in the sport, and his wrestling-heavy style translates naturally to the mat. He averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes in MMA competition, underscoring the elite-level wrestling ability that presumably made him an attractive target for the RAF.
The announcement does not include details about a first opponent or a scheduled competition date for Chimaev. The RAF has been actively building its roster with high-profile UFC talent, with Arman Tsarukyan also recently signing and competing for the league, defeating Urijah Faber by a 13-1 score.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's signing adds the UFC's top-ranked middleweight contender to the RAF's growing roster of crossover combat sports athletes.
- His move into competitive wrestling outside MMA raises questions about scheduling and how it fits alongside his UFC commitments.
- The addition of a pound-for-pound top-ten fighter raises the profile of the RAF as a destination for elite MMA wrestlers seeking to compete on the mat.
