The assumption was that a marquee star like Khamzat Chimaev was financially secure within the UFC, but his latest move to a rival promotion has shattered that perception and reignited a fierce debate about fighter pay. The reigning UFC middleweight champion is the latest star from Dana White’s promotion to join Real American Freestyle (RAF) to compete in professional wrestling between his MMA bouts. However, Chimaev joining a promotion like RAF Wrestling has prompted fans to revisit the long-standing debate over whether UFC stars are fairly compensated within the promotion.

During the RAF 08 broadcast tonight, the promotion revealed through a video trailer that Khamzat Chimaev has finally signed with them. Though his signing is official, no opponent has been confirmed yet. However, he is expected to make his debut at RAF 10, which takes place on June 13 at Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis.

“Chimaev’s standout wrestling base has allowed him to physically dominate opponents en route to a 15-0 record in MMA,” an official release from the RAF read. “He previously competed in freestyle wrestling in Sweden and was undefeated across two Swedish Freestyle National Championships.

“The signing continues to leave no doubt that RAF is the premier destination for the world’s best combat athletes to compete in previously impossible matchups. The league looks forward to upcoming events: RAF09 on May 30th in Dallas, featuring both Gable Steveson and Chris Weidman’s RAF debut, and RAF10 in St. Louis on June 13th.”

“BREAKING: Khamzat Chimaev has signed with Real American Freestyle 👀 (via @RAFWrestlingUSA)” Home of Fight posted on X.  

Following Chimaev’s signing with RAF, fans started calling out Dana White and the UFC for letting one of their biggest stars go on side quests to earn bigger paychecks.   

Fans react to Khamzat Chimaev singing with RAF  

UFC letting their guys get active in RAF is shocking. I’m surprised they are willing to let an active champ sign. I wonder how soon after his fight with Sean he will wrestle? 

UFC fighters are now seeking additional fighting jobs to stay financially afloat !  Shame on Dana & Co.   

RAF will see him once a year 

not active in UFC , almost 9-10 months to fight to defend your belt in UFC but yeah healthy for side quests 

Khamzat vs Bo in RAF would be blockbuster 

Oh lord, he’s going to f—g maul whoever they put in front of him lmao

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