Olympic wrestling champion Abdulrashid Sadulaev will make his MMA debut with the RAF promotion in the United States within the next few months. When asked about potential opponents including Jon Jones and Brock Lesnar, Sadulaev nodded affirmatively. He stated he is ready to face anyone, echoing Khabib Nurmagomedov's famous line about fighting King Kong if necessary, but added a strategic caveat: his opponent must make 97 kg (approximately 214 pounds). This weight requirement suggests Sadulaev is planning to compete at light heavyweight or a similar weight class. The debut represents a highly anticipated crossover from elite-level wrestling to professional MMA.
Abdulrashid Sadulaev, widely regarded as one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers in history, is set to make his professional MMA debut with the RAF promotion in the United States within the next few months.
The Russian wrestling legend, a multiple-time Olympic and World champion at the elite amateur level, will be transitioning to professional mixed martial arts in what ranks among the most anticipated combat sports crossovers in recent memory. No opponent has been formally announced.
When asked about potential opponents, Sadulaev responded affirmatively to names including Jon Jones and Brock Lesnar, signaling a willingness to step into the cage against the biggest names available. He echoed a sentiment made famous by fellow Russian-speaking champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, stating he is prepared to fight anyone — even King Kong if necessary. However, Sadulaev attached one firm condition: his opponent must make 97 kilograms, roughly 214 pounds. That weight requirement points toward a campaign at light heavyweight or a catchweight in that vicinity.
Why it matters
- Sadulaev's wrestling pedigree is at the absolute top of the sport, making him one of the most credentialed athletes ever to attempt an MMA transition
- The 97 kg weight limit frames the divisional landscape and narrows the realistic pool of opponents, ruling out active heavyweight title contenders competing well above that mark
- RAF securing his debut in the United States raises the promotion's profile considerably and sets up significant crossover interest from both combat sports and Olympic wrestling audiences
