Khamzat Chimaev issues $200k challenge to Olympic champions after RAF move
· Yahoo Sports
Khamzat Chimaev has taken another step outside the UFC as his profile continues to grow across combat sports.
The middleweight champion officially signed with Real American Freestyle, a rapidly emerging wrestling promotion in the United States.
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The deal was confirmed on Saturday, 18 April, marking a significant crossover move for one of MMA’s most dominant figures. RAF has been attracting attention by bringing elite-level fighters and wrestlers into a new competitive format.
Just a day later, ‘Borz’ made his presence felt with a bold message on X. His post immediately drew attention, targeting some of the most accomplished athletes in wrestling.
Khamzat Chimaev issues $200k challenge to Olympic champions
Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty ImagesChimaev addressed Olympic-level wrestlers directly in a statement that underlined his confidence ahead of any potential crossover bouts.
He wrote: “Poor wrestlers started challenging me. I have problems finding sparring partners. I’m waiting for any Olympic champion to spar. If he survives, I’ll give him $200,000.”
Despite the RAF signing, his immediate focus remains on the UFC. Chimaev is in the closing stages of his training camp to fight Sean Strickland.
The two are set to meet on 9 May at UFC 328, meaning any appearance in RAF is unlikely in the coming weeks, as he prioritises preparation for that bout.
Bo Nickal responds after Khamzat Chimaev RAF announcement
Chimaev’s comments appear to have been influenced by reactions from within the wrestling and MMA communities.
Bo Nickal, a three-time NCAA champion and current UFC middleweight, was among those to respond publicly after the RAF deal was announced.
He wrote on X: “Khamzat signing with RAF, that is very exciting. Let’s run it.”
Nickal’s message is widely seen as one of the call-outs that prompted Chimaev’s $200,000 challenge.
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