Chimaev Pursues Masvidal In December Grappling Match

Khamzat Chimaev and Jorge Masvidal are reportedly set to meet in a submission-only grappling match on Dec. 4 in Dubai.

The pairing was announced Sunday by ALF League for its inaugural event at The Agenda in the United Arab Emirates, per MMA Fighting, though the original social media post has since been taken down. The bout would headline the card as a submission-only contest.

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Chimaev's Busy Wrestling Schedule

Chimaev has stayed active on the wrestling circuit since dropping his UFC middleweight belt to Sean Strickland by split decision at UFC 328 in May. The former welterweight contender has faced Dillon Danis, Tyron Woodley, Gilbert Burns and Robbie Lawler under the Real American Freestyle banner in recent months. He is also scheduled to face former interim welterweight champion Colby Covington in the main event of RAF Abu Dhabi on Nov. 14, just 20 days before the reported Masvidal match.

Masvidal has not competed in MMA since 2023 and last stepped into the ring for a boxing match in July 2024, when he lost a decision to Nate Diaz. The former UFC welterweight title challenger would be making his grappling debut under the ALF League banner if the match proceeds as planned.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Khamzat Chimaev vs. Jorge Masvidal grappling match reportedly set