Khamzat Chimaev Returns to Competition in June
Khamzat Chimaev is set to return to competition in June. He'll make his Real American Freestyle debut at RAF10 in St. Louis against Dillon Danis on June 13, 2026.
Khamzat Chimaev's UFC future will be at light heavyweight, which is 205 pounds. This RAF match should be a great first step.
Dillon Danis is a world-class grappler with a Marcelo Garcia pedigree. He's a legitimate opponent for Khamzat Chimaev's comeback match.
Khamzat Chimaev has made it clear he's done cutting down to 185 pounds. This match will likely be contested at 200 pounds or more.
A pure freestyle wrestling match strips out the striking variable that exposed Khamzat Chimaev against Sean Strickland. He's a three-time Swedish national champion in freestyle.
Khamzat Chimaev will push the pace early, but don't expect this to look like one of his UFC clinics. Dillon Danis is comfortable enough on the ground to survive scrambles longer than most opponents.
The event will be broadcast on Fox Nation from the Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis, Missouri. Khamzat Chimaev's move to light heavyweight in the UFC isn't theoretical, and this match gives him reps at a frame closer to his future 205-pound home.
Khamzat Chimaev's UFC career isn't over, but this RAF detour buys him time to reset his momentum. He'll stay sharp without rushing into another five-round championship gauntlet.
Dillon Danis brings built-in attention to the match, and RAF gets a headline event. Khamzat Chimaev gets a credible opponent to look impressive against, and the post-UFC 328 conversation gets a fresh hook.
On June 13, 2026, Khamzat Chimaev will face Dillon Danis in a freestyle wrestling match. The outcome will be crucial for Khamzat Chimaev's UFC future.
Khamzat Chimaev's fans can expect a intense match. He'll use his wrestling skills to dominate the match, but Dillon Danis won't go down without a fight.
The match will be a great opportunity for Khamzat Chimaev to showcase his skills and prepare for his move to light heavyweight in the UFC.