Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington to Clash for RAF Cruiserweight Title in Abu Dhabi

Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington Set for RAF Abu Dhabi Headliner in November

The long-standing rivalry between Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington will finally reach its peak when they face off in a title bout at the Real American Freestyle (RAF) debut event in Abu Dhabi. The match is scheduled for November 14 at the Etihad Arena, where Covington will defend his RAF cruiserweight crossover championship against Chimaev.

Covington's Dominance Under RAF Banner

Colby Covington, holding a 5-0 record in RAF, has adapted well to his new competition platform. Known for his tenure as the UFC interim welterweight champion and three-time title contender, Covington has secured five straight victories throughout 2026. His opponents include notable MMA fighters such as Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, and Chris Weidman. In July, he claimed the inaugural cruiserweight crossover title after defeating Arman Tsarukyan.

His latest defense came in a dominant 10-0 victory over former UFC welterweight champ Belal Muhammad at RAF 13 earlier this month, marking a strong hold on his championship.

Chimaev's Rapid Rise in RAF

Khamzat Chimaev, who once held the UFC middleweight championship, has quickly made an impact in RAF with a perfect 2-0 record. He demolished Dillon Danis in just 45 seconds during his June debut and followed that with a 94-second win against ex-UFC welterweight titleholder Tyron Woodley at RAF Moscow.

A Rivalry Years in the Making

The tension between Chimaev and Covington dates back to 2020, the year Chimaev entered the UFC. Over the years, they've exchanged barbs from afar but never stepped into the cage together—until now. Fans will finally witness their skills collide head-on in what promises to be a high-stakes contest.

Additional RAF Abu Dhabi Matches Announced

Alongside the headline fight, RAF revealed additional bouts featuring big names like Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Opponents for these fighters remain unconfirmed as of now.

• Event: RAF Abu Dhabi
• Date: November 14, 2026
• Venue: Etihad Arena
• Main Event: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington (RAF Cruiserweight Crossover Title)
• Covington Record in RAF: 5-0
• Chimaev Record in RAF: 2-0
• Covington Recent Wins: Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, Chris Weidman, Arman Tsarukyan, Belal Muhammad
• Chimaev Recent Wins: Dillon Danis, Tyron Woodley