Khamzat Chimaev’s rare trait explained by UFC legend after signing with RAF Wrestling

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Khamzat Chimaev’s rare trait explained by UFC legend after signing with RAF Wrestling

Originally posted on Bloody Elbow | By Donagh Corby | Last updated Apr 21, 2026 10:04 PM ET

Khamzat Chimaev is back pursuing activity – and will even try out a whole other sport in order to get it.

That’s the opinion of Chael Sonnen, who was in attendance at RAF08 on Saturday when it was announced that the UFC middleweight champion had signed with the promotion. He will compete after his first title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 328.

Chimaev famously fought in two different weight classes within a week when he debuted in the octagon back in 2020. However, in recent years illness, weight issues and visa problems have seen him reduced to just one fight every year – or even less.

Chael Sonnen heaps praise on Khamzat Chimaev’s desire for competition

Nobody is more of an advocate for RAF Wrestling than former All American and two-time UFC title contender Chael Sonnen. He is thrilled to have Khamzat Chimaev on board as one of the most notable stars currently in combat sports.

In a new YouTube video, Sonnen claims that Chimaev has already been offered a number of names to face in his RAF Wrestling debut after the Strickland fight. And he says that the Chechen has accepted all the names on the list.

“Chimaev will take on anybody, and it’s very difficult to find somebody like that,” Sonnen explained in a gushing video.

“To find a reigning, sitting world champion who doesn’t need the money, doesn’t need the attention, and still finds somebody who likes to compete so much that he’s going into a different organization just for a chance to compete.”

It’s possible that the challenge could come in the form of Olympic gold medalist and RAF Wrestling champion Kyle Snyder, who is keen on the matchup if it comes around on the mats.

This article first appeared on Bloody Elbow and was syndicated with permission.

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