Khamzat Chimaev to Remain Active in RAF While Awaiting Rematch

Khamzat Chimaev is set to remain active in Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAF) while he waits for a rematch against Sean Strickland. Chimaev's reign as middleweight champion ended unexpectedly in May when he lost to Strickland.

Following the defeat, Chimaev expressed interest in a rematch, although Strickland initially showed little enthusiasm for the idea. Despite this, Strickland's stance appears to have shifted. Given the current circumstances, a rematch this year seems unlikely, prompting Chimaev to compete in RAF.

Chimaev made his RAF debut in June, defeating Dillon Danis, which led to a brawl involving both fighters' teams. Nevertheless, Chimaev's standing in the promotion remains intact, and he is scheduled to face Tyron Woodley at RAF Moscow. The RAF's management anticipates that Chimaev will participate in multiple events before the end of 2026, similar to other UFC fighters using the promotion to stay active.