Home News RAF Signs Five-Year Deal with Abu Dhabi for Wrestling Events

RAF Partners with Abu Dhabi for Five-Year Wrestling Events

Sep 21, 2026
59 min
6
Sep 21, 2026 11:30
RAF signs five-year Abu Dhabi deal, Chimaev to headline debut tournament

## RAF's Abu Dhabi Partnership

Real American Freestyle (RAF) has secured a five-year agreement with the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, and the UAE Wrestling Federation. This collaboration will bring RAF wrestling events to Abu Dhabi, starting with a debut at the Etihad Arena on November 14.

## Star-Studded Lineup

The inaugural event will feature prominent combat sports figures, including Khamzat Chimaev, Arman Tsarukyan, and Henry Cejudo. Chimaev, a naturalized UAE citizen, will headline the event, with his opponent to be announced soon. Other notable athletes like Jordan Burroughs and Kyle Snyder will also participate.

## Expanding Global Reach

This partnership marks RAF's third international event in its first year, following successful shows in Georgia and Russia. The agreement aims to establish Abu Dhabi as a key location on RAF's international circuit, enhancing the city's reputation as a hub for combat sports.

## Future Prospects

RAF's CEO, Chad Bronstein, emphasized the strategic importance of Abu Dhabi in their global expansion plans. The partnership is expected to create a recurring event that will benefit athletes, fans, and the region. Further details on matchups, tickets, and programming will be released in the coming weeks.

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