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

Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington to Lead RAF Abu Dhabi Event

The long-standing rivalry between Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington will reach a new peak as they meet for a title bout headlining the Real American Freestyle (RAF) debut in Abu Dhabi on November 14. The fight will take place at the Etihad Arena, with Covington putting his RAF cruiserweight crossover championship on the line against Chimaev.

Covington's Dominance in RAF

Colby Covington has adapted well to the RAF competition, boasting a perfect 5-0 record this year. The former UFC interim welterweight champion and three-time title contender has overcome notable fighters including Luke Rockhold, Dillon Danis, and Chris Weidman. He secured the inaugural cruiserweight crossover title by defeating Arman Tsarukyan in July and recently defended it decisively with a 10-0 victory over former UFC welterweight champ Belal Muhammad at RAF 13.

Chimaev’s Swift Rise

Khamzat Chimaev, previously UFC middleweight champion, has mirrored Covington’s success since joining RAF. He quickly dispatched Dillon Danis in just 45 seconds during his June debut and followed that with a rapid 94-second win over ex-UFC welterweight titleholder Tyron Woodley at RAF Moscow.

A Rivalry Years in the Making

Their conflict stretches back to Chimaev’s UFC debut in 2020, with both fighters exchanging verbal jabs from a distance. Now, they will finally settle the score inside the RAF cage.

Other Notable RAF Abu Dhabi Fights Announced

Alongside this headline match, RAF revealed bouts involving prominent athletes like Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Their opponents remain undisclosed for the moment.

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