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

Chimaev and Covington Set for Title Bout at RAF Abu Dhabi

Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington have been trading verbal jabs for years, but now they will finally settle the score in the cage. Their title fight is scheduled to headline Real American Freestyle's (RAF) first event in Abu Dhabi on November 14 at Etihad Arena.

The matchup was officially announced by RAF early Tuesday morning, promising a high-stakes showdown as Covington defends his cruiserweight crossover championship against Chimaev.

Covington’s Rise Under RAF Banner

Covington, holding a perfect 5-0 record in RAF, has adapted well since leaving UFC. As a former UFC interim welterweight champion and three-time title challenger, he has dominated the RAF mats throughout 2026. His wins include victories over notable fighters such as Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, and Chris Weidman. In July, Covington claimed the inaugural cruiserweight crossover belt by defeating Arman Tsarukyan.

Most recently, Covington successfully defended his title with a commanding 10-0 decision over ex-UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad at RAF 13 earlier this month.

Chimaev’s Explosive Start in RAF

Former UFC middleweight champion Chimaev has also impressed since joining RAF. Known as "The Wolf," he demolished Danis in just 45 seconds during his June debut and followed that up with a quick 94-second victory over former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley at RAF Moscow.

A Rivalry Years in the Making

The tension between Chimaev and Covington goes back to 2020, when Chimaev debuted in the UFC. Their back-and-forth has kept fans intrigued, and now they will finally test their skills against each other inside the cage.

Other Key Fights Announced for RAF Abu Dhabi

Besides the main event, RAF revealed additional bouts featuring names like Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Opponents for these athletes have not yet been disclosed.