The Real American Fighting (RAF) league has officially announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. The announcement marks a significant move for the wrestling-based promotion, adding a high-profile MMA fighter to their roster. Details about specific matches or Chimaev's role in RAF were not provided in the brief announcement. This signing comes amid Chimaev's ongoing UFC career and represents an expansion into the wrestling format. The move suggests Chimaev will compete in wrestling matches under RAF rules.
The Real American Fighting league has announced the signing of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat "Borz" Chimaev, adding one of MMA's most recognizable names to their wrestling roster.
Chimaev, 32, holds a professional MMA record of 15-1-0 and is currently ranked first in the UFC's middleweight division, as well as tenth in the pound-for-pound rankings. Representing the United Arab Emirates and training out of Allstars Training Center, the six-foot-two, 188-centimeter fighter has built his reputation largely on dominant grappling. His takedown rate of 5.29 per 15 minutes is among the most imposing in the sport, and he also carries a striking accuracy of 60 percent alongside 4.04 significant strikes landed per minute — numbers that reflect his ability to overwhelm opponents both on the feet and on the mat. His 75-inch reach further adds to his physical tools as a competitor.
RAF is described as a wrestling-based promotion, making Chimaev a natural fit given his grappling-heavy style. The announcement did not include details regarding specific bouts, scheduled appearances, or Chimaev's precise role within the organization. It remains unclear how this arrangement will interact with his active UFC career.
Why it matters
- Chimaev is the top-ranked UFC middleweight, making this a high-profile crossover into wrestling competition
- The signing signals RAF's ambition to attract elite combat sports athletes beyond traditional wrestling backgrounds
- No match details were announced, leaving the scope of Chimaev's involvement undefined
- Questions remain about how the commitment fits alongside his standing as a top UFC contender
