Khamzat Chimaev’s Wrestling Challenge

UFC Middleweight Champion Khamzat Chimaev (15-0) has issued a $200,000 open challenge to any Olympic-level wrestler ahead of his title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9.

Chimaev has put $200,000 of his own money on the line, stating that he has invited “any Olympic champion” to his training base in the UAE or New Jersey to attempt to outwrestle him. Reports suggest that a Real American Freestyle (RAF) wrestling champion has already signaled interest in taking the challenge. Strickland has spent his camp training with heavyweights to prepare for Chimaev’s style, but Chimaev’s recent challenge suggests the champion is prepared.

“Poor wrestlers started throwing challenges my way. I’m having trouble finding sparring partners. Waiting for any Olympic champion to step up for sparring. If he survives, I’ll give him 200 thousand dollars,” Chimaev said