Chimaev to face former champion Weidman at crossover title in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI: Former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight champion Chris Weidman will replace the injured Colby Covington to face Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of RAF Abu Dhabi this weekend.

The highly anticipated showdown, which will take place on Saturday at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, will see the two compete for the Real American Freestyle light heavyweight crossover championship as the organization makes its Middle East debut.

The American made history in 2013 when he defeated Anderson Silva, ending the Brazilian legend’s record-breaking UFC middleweight title reign, before successfully defending the championship three times. A two-time National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I All-American wrestler, Weidman brings an impressive wrestling pedigree and championship experience to the title clash.