Khamzat Chimaev gets Gilbert Burns rematch, this time on wrestling mat

Khamzat Chimaev and Gilbert Burns will renew their rivalry on the wrestling mat at Real American Freestyle 13 on September 18 at Watsco Center in Coral Gables, Florida. The pair last clashed at UFC 273, where Chimaev earned a decision victory in what became one of the most acclaimed fights of 2022, earning Fight of the Night honors. That contest took place over four years before their RAF matchup.

Chimaev, a former UFC middleweight title contender, has already committed to another RAF appearance before facing Burns. He is scheduled to headline RAF Moscow on September 5 against Tyron Woodley, a former UFC champion. Chimaev made his RAF debut earlier in 2026 against Dillon Danis.

Meanwhile, Burns, a former UFC welterweight title challenger, announced his retirement from mixed martial arts in April following a loss to Mike Malott—his fifth consecutive defeat. Since stepping away from competition, the Brazilian has focused on management work and UFC BJJ competition. The upcoming wrestling match with Chimaev marks Burns's inaugural Real American Freestyle appearance and signals a new chapter after his MMA career concluded.