Khamzat Chimaev and Gilbert Burns are gearing up for a highly anticipated rematch, but this time the venue will be the wrestling mat rather than the octagon. The two former UFC rivals are scheduled to compete in a freestyle wrestling match as part of the co-main event at RAF 13, taking place on September 18 at the Watsco Center in Coral Gables, Florida. The announcement was made by the promotion on Wednesday, although the specific catchweight for the bout has not yet been disclosed.
This match adds another layer to the ongoing saga between Chimaev and Burns, who previously faced each other in a thrilling encounter at UFC 273 in 2022. That bout was widely regarded as one of the best fights of the year, with both fighters earning Fight of the Night bonuses. Chimaev emerged victorious in that contest, winning by unanimous decision, a result that sparked considerable debate among fans and analysts alike.
Chimaev is currently double booked for RAF events, as he is also set to headline the RAF Moscow event this Saturday against former UFC champion Tyron Woodley. The rising star made his debut in the RAF promotion earlier this summer, where he showcased his grappling prowess by pinning Dillon Danis. With his recent loss of the UFC middleweight title to Sean Strickland in May, Chimaev is eager to secure his next MMA fight and has expressed a willingness to take on multiple opponents beyond just Strickland.
On the other hand, Gilbert Burns has transitioned into a new phase of his career after retiring from MMA following a TKO loss to Mike Malott in April. That defeat marked Burns' fifth consecutive loss, prompting him to step away from competitive fighting. Since retiring, he has shifted his focus towards MMA management and has also participated in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions. The upcoming match against Chimaev will mark Burns' debut in the RAF promotion.
The rivalry between Chimaev and Burns has captivated fans, and their first encounter set the stage for this wrestling match. With both athletes bringing their unique skill sets to the mat, the co-headlining bout at RAF 13 promises to be an exciting spectacle. As the date approaches, anticipation continues to build for what could be another memorable chapter in their competitive history.
As both fighters prepare for their respective events, the wrestling match at RAF 13 not only serves as a platform for Chimaev and Burns to showcase their grappling skills but also highlights the evolving landscape of combat sports, where athletes often cross over between different disciplines. The outcome of this match could have implications for both fighters as they navigate their careers post-UFC.
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