Covington puts RAF cruiserweight title on the line against unbeaten Chimaev in Abu Dhabi

Colby Covington will make the second defence of his RAF cruiserweight crossover title against Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of RAF Abu Dhabi on November 14 at Etihad Arena, promotional officials confirmed to MMA Fighting.

Covington claimed the championship with a points victory over Arman Tsarukyan at RAF 11 in July before successfully retaining it earlier this month with a first-period tech fall against Belal Muhammad in the main event of RAF 13. Following that win, “Chaos” issued a pointed warning to his next challenger, telling MMA Fighting that Chimaev needs to be careful what he wishes for.

Chimaev enters the bout undefeated in the promotion at 3-0, with pinfall victories over Dillon Danis and Tyron Woodley already on his RAF record. Most recently, “Borz” defeated former UFC opponent Gilbert Burns via tech fall at RAF 13. Before the Abu Dhabi title shot, Chimaev is also scheduled to compete in the co-main event of RAF 14 in Las Vegas two weeks prior, taking on Robbie Lawler.

The card marks RAF’s debut in Abu Dhabi and features a strong supporting lineup. Tsarukyan, whom Covington defeated for the title, is set to compete at the event with an opponent still to be announced. Olympic wrestling gold medallist Henry Cejudo, decorated grappler Jordan Burroughs, and freestyle wrestling world champion Kyle Snyder are also among the athletes confirmed for the card.