Zabit Magomedsharipov to Face Giga Chikadze in RAF Grappling Match

Former UFC featherweight standout Zabit Magomedsharipov is set to return to competition, though the matchup will take place on the wrestling mats rather than inside an MMA cage. Promotional officials confirmed to MMA Fighting that Magomedsharipov will face fellow UFC veteran Giga Chikadze at the upcoming RAF Abu Dhabi event.

The grappling contest is scheduled for November 14 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. This marks a notable return for Magomedsharipov, who has not competed in an official capacity since his final MMA appearance nearly seven years ago, where he secured a victory over Calvin Kattar.

Magomedsharipov, a highly regarded prospect during his time in the UFC, stepped away from mixed martial arts competition in his prime. His upcoming opponent, Giga Chikadze, also shares a history within the UFC featherweight division. The event continues the recent trend of high-profile combat sports athletes moving into specialized grappling exhibitions.

Source: MMA Fighting.