Merab Dvalishvili vs Henry Cejudo Set to Headline RAF Georgia in Huge Wrestling Rematch
Merab Dvalishvili and Henry Cejudo are running it back — but this time, not inside the UFC Octagon.
The two former UFC rivals are set to headline RAF Georgia on July 11, 2026, at Tbilisi Arena, in a freestyle wrestling matchup that brings serious combat sports history into a new setting.
The card gets even bigger with Kyle Snyder vs Abdulrashid Sadulaev in the co-main event, giving RAF one of its strongest wrestling lineups yet.
Merab vs Cejudo Gets a New Chapter
Merab Dvalishvili and Henry Cejudo already shared the cage at UFC 298, where Merab defeated Cejudo by unanimous decision.
That fight was a major bantamweight moment. Cejudo started well, using his Olympic-level wrestling and early striking success to make things competitive. But as the fight continued, Merab’s pace, cardio, and pressure took over.
By the final round, Merab was fully in control. He famously carried Cejudo across the Octagon and slammed him, turning the moment into one of the most memorable highlights of his rise.
Now, Cejudo gets a chance to test himself again — this time in a pure wrestling environment.
Why This Matchup Is So Interesting
In MMA, Merab’s pressure and cardio are his biggest weapons. He can chain takedowns, force scrambles, and overwhelm opponents with nonstop movement.
Cejudo, however, comes from a world-class wrestling background. Before becoming a UFC champion, he was already one of the most accomplished wrestlers in combat sports.
That makes the RAF rematch interesting.
In MMA, Merab beat him with pace, pressure, and overall fight control. In freestyle wrestling, Cejudo may feel he has a better chance to show his pure grappling skill without punches, kicks, or cage striking involved.
RAF Georgia Gets a Massive Main Event
Holding the event in Georgia makes the Merab headline even bigger.
Merab is one of the most important Georgian fighters in combat sports. His relentless style, personality, and rise to UFC success made him a national hero for many fans.
Competing in Georgia under the RAF banner gives him a chance to perform in front of a crowd that will likely be fully behind him.
That kind of atmosphere can make the event feel special.
Snyder vs Sadulaev Is a Legendary Co-Main
As strong as Merab vs Cejudo is, the co-main event may be just as historic.
Kyle Snyder vs Abdulrashid Sadulaev is one of the greatest rivalries in modern freestyle wrestling. Their history includes world championship and Olympic battles, with Sadulaev leading the overall series.
Snyder gave Sadulaev one of his most famous losses in 2017, winning a dramatic 6-5 match. Sadulaev later came back with dominant wins, including Olympic and world championship victories.
Putting that rivalry on the same card as Merab vs Cejudo gives RAF Georgia real prestige.
RAF Georgia on July 11 is shaping up as a major night for wrestling and combat sports fans.
Merab Dvalishvili vs Henry Cejudo brings UFC history, national pride, and a fascinating wrestling rematch. Kyle Snyder vs Abdulrashid Sadulaev adds world-class freestyle wrestling greatness to the co-main event.
This is not just another RAF card.
It is a clash of champions, rivals, and elite grapplers — and Tbilisi may be the perfect stage for it.
