Kyle Dake, a highly accomplished American wrestler, is set to face Mahamedkhabib Kadimagomedov at RAF 5 in Florida, seeking redemption for a previous Olympic loss, while expressing enthusiasm for ongoing competitive opportunities and potential matchups with UFC fighters.
Kyle Dake, a legendary figure in American wrestling, continues to seek new challenges even at 34. With Olympic medals, World Championships, and NCAA titles under his belt, he’s not slowing down.
This Saturday at RAF 5 in Florida, Dake faces Mahamedkhabib Kadimagomedov. Their last encounter in the 2020 Olympics ended in an unexpected 11-0 defeat for Dake, who was favored for gold. Though he bounced back to win bronze, that match has lingered in his mind.
Reflecting on their Olympic clash, Dake admitted, “I wrestled ‘Kadik’ in 2021, but I wasn’t at my best. Injuries and weight cuts took a toll. No excuses, though. Competing is what matters.” Despite setbacks, he later claimed the World Championships, while Kadimagomedov didn’t place.
In Paris, Dake and Kadimagomedov shared a sauna, discussing future plans. Both considered moving up to 86 kilos. Now, they finally meet again—a match Dake has long anticipated.
Kadimagomedov, after a stint with Bellator MMA, returned to wrestling, setting up this rematch. Dake holds no grudges but is eager to demonstrate his growth since their last bout.
“I don’t see it as revenge,” Dake explained. “I just love competing. Every match is meaningful, and I aim to give my best regardless of circumstances.”
Dake appreciates RAF for facilitating these matches. Unlike the long waits on the international circuit, RAF keeps him active, offering unique opportunities.
“Normally, there’s an eight-week gap between matches. Now, it’s just three or four weeks,” Dake noted. “It’s like high school or college wrestling, and I feel sharper because of it.”
Should he overcome Kadimagomedov, Dake has no shortage of potential opponents, including Zahid Valencia, who bested him twice to qualify for the 2025 World Championships.
There’s also intrigue in facing UFC fighters interested in wrestling, like Colby Covington and Luke Rockhold. Dake once proposed a grappling match with Khabib Nurmagomedov, though it never materialized.
Dake is open to challenges from any UFC fighter. “I’m all for it,” he said. “Let’s see where they’re at. If they can compete, let’s go.”
The inclusion of UFC veterans in RAF boosts wrestling’s profile, drawing attention beyond traditional tournaments. “It brings more notoriety to the sport,” Dake remarked, highlighting the excitement of watching familiar names compete.
Casual fans might tune in for UFC stars but discover talents like Kennedy Blades, Wyatt Hendrickson, and, of course, Kyle Dake. It’s an opportunity to showcase wrestling’s depth and talent.