Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington to Headline RAF Abu Dhabi Event in November

The long-standing rivalry between Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington will reach a boiling point when they face off for the RAF cruiserweight crossover title on November 14 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. This bout will headline Real American Freestyle's (RAF) debut event in the city.

The announcement came early Tuesday from RAF officials, confirming that Covington will defend his cruiserweight crossover championship against Chimaev in what promises to be a fierce contest.

Covington's Dominance in RAF

Colby Covington, now 5-0 under the RAF banner, has thrived in this new promotion, showcasing his wrestling and striking prowess. The former UFC interim welterweight champion and three-time title challenger dispatched notable MMA veterans such as Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, and Chris Weidman before capturing the inaugural cruiserweight crossover belt by defeating Arman Tsarukyan in July.

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

Chimaev's Rapid Rise

Khamzat Chimaev, a former UFC middleweight champion, has made an equally impressive mark in RAF. In his June debut, he overwhelmed Dillon Danis in just 45 seconds. Chimaev then followed up with a swift 94-second knockout of former UFC welterweight titleholder Tyron Woodley at RAF Moscow, extending his unbeaten streak to 2-0 within the promotion.

Rivalry Years in the Making

The two fighters have exchanged verbal jabs for years, ever since Chimaev burst onto the UFC scene in 2020. Now, with the cruiserweight crossover title at stake, they finally get the chance to settle their differences inside the cage.

Other Notable RAF Abu Dhabi Bouts

Alongside this marquee matchup, RAF revealed additional fights featuring stars like Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Opponents for these athletes are yet to be confirmed.

• Event: RAF Abu Dhabi
• Date: November 14, 2026
• Location: Etihad Arena
• Main Event: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington (RAF cruiserweight crossover title)
• Covington's RAF Record: 5-0
• Chimaev's RAF Record: 2-0
• Covington's Recent Wins: Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, Chris Weidman, Arman Tsarukyan, Belal Muhammad
• Chimaev's Recent Wins: Dillon Danis, Tyron Woodley