Zabit Magomedsharipov booked for grappling match against Raul Rosas Jr.

After nearly seven years away from competition, Zabit Magomedsharipov is set to return to action in a no-gi grappling match against surging UFC rising star Raul Rosas Jr. at ACBJJ 21 on July 5 in Moscow, Russia. The bout will take place at 70 kg (154 pounds).

Magomedsharipov (18-1) is widely considered one of MMA's biggest "what ifs." The exceptionally well-rounded featherweight captured four performance bonuses during his six UFC victories, showcasing elite grappling and striking. He last competed in 2019, defeating Calvin Kattar via unanimous decision in a "Fight of the Night" classic. Magomedsharipov then surprised the MMA world by retiring in 2022 to pursue a medical career, stepping away from the sport at the height of his potential.

Meanwhile, Rosas Jr., now 21 years old, is riding a five-fight winning streak in the UFC. The young prospect recently notched his biggest career victory against established bantamweight Rob Font, continuing his rapid rise through the promotion's ranks.

The matchup represents a fascinating collision of past and present: Magomedsharipov's immense skill and unfulfilled potential against a new generation of talent in Rosas Jr. While grappling matches operate under different rules and scoring than MMA bouts, the contest will provide insight into how Magomedsharipov's elite grappling translates after years away from organized competition, and whether his medical ambitions have truly taken priority over a potential fighting return.