The RAF wrestling league has officially announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. This represents a significant acquisition for the wrestling promotion, adding one of MMA's most dominant grapplers to their roster. Chimaev, known for his elite wrestling credentials and undefeated UFC record, will now compete in pure wrestling matches alongside his MMA career. The signing continues RAF's strategy of attracting top MMA fighters with strong wrestling backgrounds. Details about Chimaev's first RAF opponent or match date were not provided in the announcement.
The RAF wrestling league has officially announced the signing of Khamzat "Borz" Chimaev, adding the top-ranked UFC middleweight contender to its roster as of April 2026. The promotion confirmed the acquisition but did not disclose details regarding a first opponent or match date.
Chimaev, 32, represents one of the most decorated grapplers active in mixed martial arts today. Fighting out of Allstars Training Center and representing the United Arab Emirates, the orthodox striker carries a professional MMA record of 15-1-0 and currently sits first in the UFC middleweight rankings as well as tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. His wrestling credentials are reflected throughout his statistical profile — he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, a figure that ranks among the elite in the sport. He also lands 4.04 significant strikes per minute at an impressive 60 percent accuracy, and averages 1.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes, underlining just how well-rounded his grappling game is beyond the takedown itself. Standing six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach, Chimaev presents a physically imposing package that translates naturally to pure wrestling competition.
The signing fits a pattern RAF has pursued of recruiting high-level MMA competitors whose wrestling pedigree can withstand scrutiny in a dedicated grappling format.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes underscore why RAF targeted him as a marquee signing
- His addition raises the promotion's profile considerably, given his top-ten pound-for-pound status in MMA
- Competing in pure wrestling matches alongside an active UFC career will test how Chimaev manages a dual schedule
- RAF's ongoing recruitment strategy signals ambition to bridge the gap between MMA and competitive wrestling audiences
