After a long break, it looks like Zabit Magomedsharipov is looking to stay active.
Magomedsharipov started teasing the idea of a return earlier this year now that it has been seven years since the last time he stepped inside the Octagon.
The Russian went 6-0 in the UFC and was on the cusp of a title shot before walking away from the sport, though it’s clear that he still has an interest in grappling.
Magomedsharipov beat Youssef Zalal in his return in August at ACBJJ 22, but has now joined the ranks of a second grappling promotion.
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Zabit Magomedsharipov books RAF debut matchup with Giga Chikadze
Fans can expect to see Zabit Magomedsharipov compete in grappling much more frequently now that he has signed to Real American Freestyle.
It was reported by various sources via his manager that the former UFC featherweight contender has signed a multi-match deal with the promotion.
After he beat UFC featherweight Youssef Zalal in August, he’ll take on another member of this division when he faces Giga Chikadze in his debut on November 14 in Abu Dhabi, as reported by Mike Heck.
This is the card that will be headlined by Khamzat Chimaev facing Colby Covington for the cruiserweight crossover championship.
Magomedsharipov was pushing for a title shot in ACBJJ, so it remains unclear whether he will continue to compete in both promotions at the same time.
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How will the the RAF Abu Dhabi main event play out?
Colby Covington and Khamzat Chimaev will clash for the cruiserweight crossover championship on November 14.
While Magomedsharipov was likely best known for his creative striking style, he regularly showed off his impressive grappling when competing inside the Octagon.
His Suloev stretch submission win over Brandon Davis in 2018 is comfortably the best example of this.
RAF’s debut in Abu Dhabi will also feature Umar Nurmagomedov vs Urijah Faber, along with another announced matchup between Kyle Snyder and Shamil Erdogan.
A rematch between Jordan Burroughs and Azamat Nurykau was also added to the card when Magomedsharipov’s opponent was announced.
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