RAF signs five-year Abu Dhabi deal, Chimaev to headline debut tournament

Real American Freestyle (RAF) has inked a five-year deal with Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, along with the UAE Wrestling Federation. The partnership will launch on November 14, as RAF makes its Middle East wrestling debut at Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena. UFC lightweight fighter Khamzat Chimaev is set to headline the event, with his opponent to be announced soon.

Other notable fighters joining the card include Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Early interest registration is encouraged via VisitAbuDhabi.ae to secure tickets. This marks RAF's third international event in its debut year, following shows in Tbilisi, Georgia, and Moscow, Russia.

The five-year agreement bolsters Abu Dhabi as a top sports market for RAF and supports the league's goal of creating a globally recognized professional wrestling platform. UFC lightweight fighter Arman Tsarukyan will also compete in Abu Dhabi, further strengthening RAF's international roster. This expansion into the United Arab Emirates aligns with RAF's strategy to bring premium professional wrestling events to markets with passionate combat sports audiences and world-class live event infrastructure.