Former UFC Bantamweight Azamat Gashimov (7-3) has a new home.

The Ranik Ultimate Fighting Federation, RUFF for short, today announced that the Russian had sealed a deal with the China-based promotion, and is expected to make his promotional debut later in March.

Following UFC release, Azamat Gashimov signs with RUFF

Gashimov, a two-time UFC vet, received his pink slip from the UFC following back-to-back defeats against Ivan Menjivar and John Lineker. The 23-year-old brought a 7-1 record to the octagon prior to those setbacks.

Gashimov (pictured), as with most of his Russian counterparts, started off in the Sambo sport where he found much success. He then made the transition to Mixed Martial Arts, competing in multiple domestic promotions in Russia.

RUFF also took the opportunity to announce the signing of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s teammate, Shamil Magomedov (1-2). The former Combat Sambo champ is only 20-years-old, but has already shown great potential with a myriad of accolades to his credit, including placing 1st at the Youth European Sambo championships.

Though their opponents have not been finalized, both fighters are expected to be slated to the RUFF 12 line-up that’s set for March 29 in Shanghai, China.

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