Undefeated UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev is venturing into a new combat sports arena, signing with Real American Freestyle (RAF). The announcement was made during the RAF08 event on April 18 in Philadelphia. Specifics regarding Chimaev’s debut opponent and the event are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.
This signing underscores RAF’s strategy of attracting prominent figures from mixed martial arts and wrestling to broaden its viewership. Chimaev’s wrestling-centric approach, characterized by pressure, control, and physical dominance, has been instrumental in his 15-0 MMA record and his UFC middleweight title acquisition. His first UFC title defense is slated for May 9 against Sean Strickland at UFC 328.
For RAF, this acquisition represents a significant addition to its roster as the promotion aims to establish itself as a destination for elite talent beyond traditional wrestling circles. As the premier unscripted professional freestyle wrestling league, RAF is demonstrating an aggressive event schedule, with RAF08 taking place in Philadelphia, followed by RAF09 on May 30 in Dallas and RAF10 on June 13 in St. Louis.
Further solidifying its lineup, RAF09 is set to feature the debut of Gable Steveson against Alexandr Romanov, and reports indicate that former UFC champion Chris Weidman will also make his RAF debut on the same Dallas card.
Chimaev possesses a genuine freestyle wrestling background, having secured Swedish national titles in 2016, 2017, and 2018 prior to his MMA success. While his RAF debut date is yet to be confirmed, it is likely to occur after his UFC title defense on May 9, unless RAF strategically places it later in its 2026 calendar.
RAF has previously attracted notable names such as Arman Tsarukyan, Urijah Faber, Colby Covington, Gable Steveson, and Chris Weidman, with Chimaev being the most prominent active UFC champion to join their ranks.
