Henry Cejudo and Merab Dvalishvili, both former UFC champions, are scheduled to face off in a freestyle wrestling match at RAF 08 on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The bout will take place at The Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, offering an intriguing clash between two athletes with strong wrestling roots.
Matchup Official After Immediate Challenge Following RAF 06 Victory
The contest between Cejudo and Dvalishvili was confirmed shortly after Cejudo’s dominant performance at RAF 06 on February 28, 2026. There, Cejudo secured an 11-0 technical fall win over Urijah Faber. Following his victory, Cejudo publicly called out Dvalishvili, who was present at the venue, prompting an immediate acceptance from Dvalishvili.
This encounter will be governed by freestyle wrestling rules, differing from their Octagon meeting in 2024 at UFC 298, where Dvalishvili won by unanimous decision using sustained wrestling pressure. The upcoming match provides Cejudo the opportunity to leverage his Olympic gold medal wrestling experience, while Dvalishvili aims to challenge himself ahead of a possible trilogy fight with Petr Yan planned for the summer.
MERAB. CEJUDO.
THIS IS HAPPENING. pic.twitter.com/951roDD40f
— Real American Freestyle (@RAFWrestlingUSA) March 1, 2026
Henry Cejudo looks to avenge a notable MMA loss and calls out Merab Dvalishvili for a wrestling match at RAF Philly. pic.twitter.com/vp1uPxVIi3
— Caleb Harris (@calebASUharris) March 1, 2026
RAF 07 Prepares the Stage with Key Title Fights in Tampa
Before RAF 08 highlights the Cejudo-Dvalishvili clash, RAF 07 will take place in Tampa featuring several important title defenses. Kyle Dake is set to defend his Cruiserweight championship against Parker Keckeisen, a five-time NCAA All-American. Another notable matchup includes Bo Bassett facing Vladimer Khinchegashvili, a two-time Olympic medalist.
Additionally, Wyatt Hendrickson will challenge Trent Hillger for the Unlimited championship. These bouts contribute to building momentum for RAF 08, where the spotlight will shine brightest on the contest between Cejudo and Dvalishvili.
Expectations for a High-Level Wrestling Showcase in Philadelphia
The upcoming freestyle wrestling match between Henry Cejudo and Merab Dvalishvili is poised to attract significant attention due to their combined MMA accomplishments and wrestling expertise. Both fighters bring a strong technical foundation and competitive experience that promises a fast-paced and carefully contested battle.
RAF 08’s hosting at Philadelphia’s iconic Liacouras Center adds extra prestige, signaling one of the premier wrestling events of the year. Fans and analysts will keenly observe how Cejudo’s Olympic credentials influence the bout and what adjustments Dvalishvili will make to counter his opponent’s strengths. This event may also set the tone for Dvalishvili’s summer plans and Cejudo’s ongoing pursuit to reclaim pride following their earlier MMA encounter.
MERAB. CEJUDO.
THIS IS HAPPENING. pic.twitter.com/951roDD40f
— Real American Freestyle (@RAFWrestlingUSA) March 1, 2026
Henry Cejudo looks to avenge a notable MMA loss and calls out Merab Dvalishvili for a wrestling match at RAF Philly. pic.twitter.com/vp1uPxVIi3
— Caleb Harris (@calebASUharris) March 1, 2026
