Robbie Lawler is making his RAF debut against Khamzat Chimaev on October 23rd, and he’s already throwing down a gauntlet on Chimaev’s grappling game, basically telling everyone to wake up. This isn’t just another fight; it’s Lawler’s return after a knockout win in his 2023 retirement fight at UFC 290 against Niko Price. He’s coming back, and he’s not intimidated by Chimaev’s notorious wrestling.
“Ruthless” Says Don’t Sleep On His Grappling
Look, we all know Chimaev. Few fighters have had an answer for his wrestling in the cage. It’s his thing, right? But Lawler, a former UFC champion, is having none of that “underdog” talk when it comes to the mat. Even without the typical wrestling credentials everyone expects, Lawler is flat out saying his grappling is ready. He told MMA Junkie Radio, “Obviously, I’ve always used my wrestling just to defend takedowns, stay on my feet, to knock people out , but I can wrestle.” This guy isn’t just talking, he’s got a history of training at the Hawk Club before he even got back into the UFC, and he’s been training with young guys consistently. Lawler is straight-up telling us, “I’m not too worried about these positions, and I’m in shape. I love competing, and I’m strong. I don’t think a lot of people realize what I’m capable of, but that’s all right.” This isn’t just confidence; it’s a warning. Is Chimaev truly prepared for this version of “Ruthless”?
Intensity Is The Name Of The Game
Khamzat Chimaev is a serious competitor. We’ve seen him get right in opponents’ faces, bringing that intense energy during faceoffs. It’s part of his persona, part of what makes him must-watch TV. But while Lawler has always been the more mild-mannered type throughout his career, don’t mistake that for a lack of fire. Matching intensity has never been an issue for him. Lawler respects everyone he steps in there with, but he’s clear: “there’s going to be intensity there anyways because we’re competing.” He knows Chimaev wants to win, and Lawler wants to win just as much. When two high-level guys are competing, that intensity is just *there*. Lawler doesn’t need to dislike his opponent or be “freaking angry” to bring it. He says, “they’re going to know I’m in there to freaking go to battle.” Chimaev is 3-0 under the RAF banner, and he’s going to meet a man who hasn’t seen competition in a while but clearly hasn’t lost his edge.
What’s Next For The Ruthless One?
So, is this just a one-off for the legendary Robbie Lawler? He hasn’t competed since that incredible knockout win in 2023, but it sounds like there could be more to come. He told reporters he just has one match booked for now, but hinted, “we’re in talks to do more.” For now, it’s all about RAF 14 at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas on October 23rd. You can catch all the action streaming on Fox Nation. This fight isn’t just about Chimaev trying to extend his RAF streak; it’s about Lawler proving that “retirement” was just a word, and that he’s still got the grappling, the strength, and the fire to compete at the highest level. We’re about to see if he can back up those bold claims.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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