Khamzat Chimaev has sent shockwaves through both MMA and wrestling circles by signing with Real American Freestyle (RAF), only to be immediately called out by former UFC foe Bo Nickal. The undefeated middleweight kingpin, fresh off securing a title shot against Sean Strickland at UFC 328, has now added a high-profile RAF debut to his growing résumé, setting up a potential clash with one of the hottest prospects in combat sports.
Chimaev’s unexpected RAF debut
Formerly unbeaten across two Swedish National Championships, Chimaev’s foray into RAF represents a significant coup for the fast-growing wrestling promotion. Since its inception, RAF has capitalised on keeping elite fighters active between UFC cards – Arman Tsarukyan and Colby Covington have both featured in blockbuster match-ups. Although Chimaev’s first bout under the RAF banner has yet to be scheduled, his signing on April 18 made instant headlines.
Nickal rekindles old rivalry
Just days after the announcement, Bo Nickal – fresh from a knockout win at UFC 322 – took to X to fire an open challenge at Chimaev: “Khamzat signing with RAF. That is very exciting. Let’s run it.” The exchange nods to a simmering feud that dates back to Nickal overlooking Chimaev in his all-time MMA wrestler top three, and predicting he would “ragdoll” the Chechen phenom in an MMA bout.
UFC rules cast doubt on showdown
Despite the buzz, UFC regulations strictly forbid contracted fighters from facing one another in outside promotions. RAF promoters are reportedly in talks with the UFC to explore a possible exemption, a route that could also pave the way for other marquee match-ups such as Tsarukyan vs. Covington. For now, however, both Chimaev and Nickal face bureaucratic hurdles before they can settle their score on the mat.
With UFC 328 looming on May 9, Chimaev’s priorities remain clear: defend his middleweight crown against Sean Strickland. Yet the prospect of a high-stakes RAF encounter against Nickal ensures fans will watch closely if bureaucracy and contract clauses can be navigated.
FAQ
When will Khamzat Chimaev make his RAF debut?
RAF has not yet announced a date or opponent for Chimaev’s debut. Fans can expect further announcements as the promotion finalises its event schedule.
Who is Bo Nickal, and why did he call out Chimaev?
Bo Nickal is an undefeated UFC middleweight who previously sparred with Chimaev verbally by ranking him outside his top MMA wrestlers. He issued the challenge to spark a blockbuster match-up in RAF.
How does this affect Chimaev’s UFC 328 title fight?
Chimaev remains focused on defending his middleweight belt against Sean Strickland on May 9. His RAF deal runs parallel to, but does not replace, his UFC commitments.
Can UFC fighters compete in RAF despite the rules?
Current UFC policy prohibits fighters from meeting in other promotions. RAF officials are in discussions with the UFC for potential exceptions, but no agreement has been confirmed.
