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Tag: Paul Hughes

  • Paul Hughes Withdraws from PFL Belfast with Knee Injury: ‘I Am Absolutely Crushed’

    Paul Hughes Withdraws from PFL Belfast with Knee Injury: ‘I Am Absolutely Crushed’

    Paul Hughes recently withdrew from the PFL Belfast main event scheduled for April 16th after sustaining a knee injury in training. The fighter announced the setback on social media and will undergo surgery soon.

    In a recentย Instagramย video post, Hughes revealed the unfortunate incident and said that his PFL comeback fight was called off due to a serious knee injury.

    โ€œIโ€™m out of PFL Belfast. Did everything I possibly could. Surgery next week to fix the issue. Iโ€™m sorry to all my supporters. I am absolutely crushed,โ€ Hughes said.

    โ€œThe card will go ahead featuring the best talent the island has to offer. Including my teammates and the future of Irish MMA.

    โ€œI will be back as soon as humanly possible. The obstacle is the way.โ€

    Hughes was set to headline the event against Jay Jay Wilson in front of his hometown crowd. The promotion announced the change on Wednesday, with Wilson now facing undefeated Darragh Kelly (9-0) in the new main event.

    PFL Belfast Card

    The withdrawal is a significant blow for the Belfast card, as Hughes holds a perfect 4-0 record in his hometown with all four victories coming by first-round finish. The 27-year-old fighter carries a professional record of 14-3 and has challenged for the 155-pound championship in both PFL and Bellator.

    PFL’s Ray Sefo issued a statement wishing Hughes a speedy recovery. The promotion moved quickly to secure Kelly as a replacement opponent to maintain a competitive main event for the April 16 card.

    No timeline has been provided for Hughes’ return to competition following the surgery.

    We at MMA News wish Paul Hughes a speedy recovery.

  • Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 scorecards and headbutt discussed by PFL Dubai victor

    Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 scorecards and headbutt discussed by PFL Dubai victor

    Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 had many discussing the judging and refereeing aspects of the contest in the aftermath, with a standout performer from that same PFL Dubai card weighing in.

    Archie Colgan is the referenced mixed martial artist here, and Colgan defeated Jay Jay Wilson by way of a unanimous decision at PFL Dubai on October 3rd in a lightweight bout.ย 

    When touching on the Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 fight, and how it seemed like there was a certain level of controversy surrounding the judges’ scorecards. When asked if he has any thoughts on the Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 scorecards at all, Colgan said [via Bowks Talking Bouts],

    “Not really. I think that, you know, there was a scorecard that said 50-45, meaning that Paul Hughes didn’t win any round.”

    “I don’t see that one. I think he won. In my head, fresh when I was watching the fight right there in front of me, I thought it was like 4-1.”

    “Maybe you could do a 3-2. But I thought Usman won the fight. So yeah, but you know I think the controversy was in somebody saying it was 50-45, that he won no rounds.”

    “Yeah, I disagree with that as well. But I definitely don’t agree with some of the people saying like it was a robbery.”

    “As in you know Usman should have lost. I was like ah no, I thought it was pretty decisive who was winning the fight. But how many rounds you give, like I don’t know.”

    When touching on the instance in the championship clash, where it looked like Usman connected with a headbutt of sorts when a round had ended. Giving his thoughts on that sequence in the bout and commenting on his own curious situation with his appointed referee at PFL Dubai, Colgan stated [via Bowks Talking Bouts],

    “Yeah, I forgot about that. I forgot about that. That was; especially for to [have] no referee intervention between that and being like hey, you know, that was kind of a weird moment.”

    “But I mean that kind of happened all night too. Even in my fight, like me and my opponent kind of got like, in between rounds, second and third round, I think.”

    “Like staring at each other, and the ref shoved me. Like I stumbled backwards.”

    “I was like, “Hey, chill out, man.” So, like, you know, he was on the other spectrum of that where he was doing too much, the other ref didn’t do enough [laughs].”

    “It was just a cluster of emotion” with Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2, says Colgan

    When touching on the different dynamics with assigned referees that can inform how differently his Wilson fight was handled versus how the other assigned ref handled Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2, Colgan quipped [via Bowks Talking Bouts],

    “Yeah, I agree. Yeah, I mean, that was a weird situation. I don’t know if it was like; again, I’d have to watch it back and see it.”

    “Because especially if you’re watching it live. It looked more of like a head-to-head. Like you guys are talking s**t to each other, and then like an extra push.”

    “But you know, I assume it was probably more of that than, like just a straight-up headbutt. But I don’t know.”

    “I’d have to see that like on camera because even in person, it looked like it was just a cluster of emotion, really.”

  • “Much Closer Than That” – Fans Blast Wide Judges’ Scorecards As Usman Nurmagomedov Bests Paul Hughes In PFL Lightweight World Title Fight At PFL Champions Series 3

    “Much Closer Than That” – Fans Blast Wide Judges’ Scorecards As Usman Nurmagomedov Bests Paul Hughes In PFL Lightweight World Title Fight At PFL Champions Series 3

    In one of the most highly-anticipated rematches in PFL history, Usman Nurmagomedov made it no question this time around — scoring a clear decision over Paul Hughes to become PFL lightweight world champion in the main event of PFL Champions Series 3.

    Nurmagomedov and Hughes battled technically over the five rounds, starting with Nurmagomedov coming out of the gate with low kicks and body work, plus working back control on Hughes after a takedown. Hughes tried to rally as the rounds went on, but Nurmagomedov repeatedly managed to find takedowns over the second and third rounds to stall Hughes’ momentum.

    Hughes showed grit during the championship rounds as he managed to find escapes out of the grappling of Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov, however, was relentless with his pressure and went toe-to-toe with him in his striking. Hughes looked to press forward in the final round with his combinations, but Nurmagomedov’s defense and late takedown sealed the deal in his favor.

    The judges scored the bout 50-45, 49-46, and 48-47, all in Nurmagomedov’s favor.

    Usman Nurmagomedov Wins PFL Lightweight Title With Decision Over Paul Hughes

    https://twitter.com/ZachSchumaker/status/1974228248692470026

    The two first met at the first PFL Champions Series event in January, with Nurmagomedov controversially retaining the then-Bellator lightweight title with a majority decision win.

    Nurmagomedov improves to 20-0 (1 NC) with this win.

    Nurmagomedov is responsible now for two of the now-three losses in Hughes’ professional MMA career. He came into this fight off a sub-minute finish of Bruno Miranda at PFL Europe 1 in May.

  • PFL Champions Series: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2 Results & Highlights

    PFL Champions Series: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2 Results & Highlights

    The third PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event took place on Saturday, and MMA News has you covered with all the action.

    After a number of changes to its organizational structure earlier in the year, and with the PFL World Tournament concluded, the PFL will hold its third edition of the PFL Champions Series at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE.

    The main event will see a highly anticipated lightweight championship rematch featuring defending champion Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes. The two clashed over the Bellator lightweight title at the first PFL Champions Series event in January, with Nurmagomedov winning the exciting encounter on a controversial majority decision.

    Gold will also be on the line in the co-main event, as Corey Anderson faces Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov for the PFL light heavyweight championship. The two first met in April 2021 during Bellator’s Light Heavyweight Grand Prix, with Anderson getting the finish. Anderson defeated Karl Moore in March 2024 to become Bellator light heavyweight champion.

    The rest of the main card will also feature a No. 1 contender’s match at bantamweight between Magomed Magomedov and Sergio Pettis, a lightweight battle feature Archie Colgan and Jay-Jay Wilson, and a 140-pound catchweight bout between Jack Cartwright and Caolan Loughran.

    PFL Champions Series 3 begins at 11:30 am ET on the ESPN app. If you can’t watch the action, check here for the latest results and highlights!

    PFL Champions Series 3: Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 Results & Highlights

    • PFL Lightweight Championship: Usman Nurmagomedov def. Paul Hughes via unanimous decision (50-45, 49-46, 48-47)
    • PFL Light Heavyweight Championship: Corey Anderson def. Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov via unanimous decision (49-45 x2, 48-47)
    • Bantamweight Title Eliminator: Sergio Pettis def. Magomed Magomedov via KO (R2, 4:31)
    • Lightweight: Archie Colgan def. Jay-Jay Wilson via unanimous decision (30-27 x2, 29-28)
    • Catchweight (140 lbs): Jack Cartwright def. Caolan Loughran via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
    • Heavyweight: Pouya Rahmani def. Slim Trabelsi via TKO (R1, 2:47)
    • Welterweight: Florim Zendeli def. Omar El Dafrawy via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
    • Lightweight: Mirafzal Akhtamov def. Luann Sardinha via split decision (28-29, 29-28 x2)
    • Lightweight: Takeshi Izumi def. Vinicius Cenci via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)
    • Lightweight: Makkasharip Zaynukov def. John Mitchell via unanimous decision (30-26, 29-28 x2)
    • Middleweight: Jarrah Al-Silawi def. Gregory Babene via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)

    Jarrah Al-Silawi vs. Gregory Babene

    Makkasharip Zaynukov vs. John Mitchell

    Takeshi Izumi vs. Vinicius Cenci

    Luann Sardinha vs. Mirafzal Akhtamov

    Omar El Dafrawy vs. Florim Zendeli

    Pouya Rahmani vs. Slim Trabelsi

    Jack Cartwright vs. Caolan Loughran

    Archie Colgan vs. Jay-Jay Wilson

    Magomed Magomedov vs. Sergio Pettis

    Corey Anderson vs. Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov

    Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes

  • PFL Champions Series: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2 Weigh-In Results

    PFL Champions Series: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2 Weigh-In Results

    The official weigh-ins for PFL Champions Series: Dubai are wrapped up, with all 22 fighters on the card making weight.

    The MMA promotion’s marquee event is set for Friday, October 3, at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Ahead of fight night, Thursday morning saw the fighters step on the scales at the PFL host hotel in Dubai

    In the main event, former Bellator lightweight king Usman Nurmagomedov will once again lock horns with Paul Hughes in a rematch of their thrilling clash from last year. Both fighters came in exactly at 155 pounds, making their showdown for the vacant PFL title official.

    Meanwhile, in the co-main event of PFL Champions Series, Corey Anderson is set to fight Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov for the vacant light heavyweight title. Both contenders looked sharp on the scales, with “Overtime” weighing in at 204.6 pounds and Yagshimuradov coming in right at 205.

    PFL Champions Series Complete Weigh-In Results

    Main Card

    • Vacant PFL lightweight title: Usman Nurmagomedov (155) vs. Paul Hughes (155)
    • Vacant PFL lightweight heavyweight title: Corey Anderson (204.6) vs. Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov (205)
    • Lightweight: Archie Colgan (155.6) vs. Jay Jay Wilson (155.7)
    • 140-pound contract weight: Jack Cartwright (139.8) vs. Caolan Loughran (140)
    • Bantamweight: Magomed Magomedov (135.4) vs. Sergio Pettis (135)

    Preliminary Card

    • Heavyweight: Pouya Rahmani (256.4) vs. Slim Trabelsi (233.8)
    • Welterweight: Omar El Dafrawy (170.6) vs. Florim Zendeli (171)
    • Lightweight: Mirafzal Akhtamov (155) vs. Luann Sardinha (154.4)
    • Lightweight: Vinicius Cenci (155.2) vs. Takeshi Izumi (155.8)
    • Lightweight: John Mitchell (155.2) vs. Makkasharip Zaynukov (155.8)
    • Middleweight: Jarrah Al-Silawi (185.8) vs. Gregory Babene (185)
    Image: PFLMMA.com

  • Dubai to Host PFL Champions Series on October 3 Featuring Two World Title Rematches – Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2

    Dubai to Host PFL Champions Series on October 3 Featuring Two World Title Rematches – Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2

    The PFL will stage a major championship event in Dubai on October 3, headlined by two world title bouts at the Coca-Cola Arena. The card, titled PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai โ€“ The Rematch, will feature the return meeting between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes, as well as a light heavyweight title clash between Corey Anderson and Dovlet Yagshimuradov.

    Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2

    The main event will see undefeated lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov (19-0, 1 NC) defend his title against Irelandโ€™s Paul Hughes (14-2). The pair fought earlier this year in January at the same venue, producing a five-round contest that many regarded as one of the best fights of the year. Nurmagomedov was declared the winner by decision, though the result was the subject of fan debate. Hughes has since returned with a rapid 42-second win over Bruno Miranda in May, using his post-fight interview to directly call for the rematch.

    Nurmagomedov, known for his technical control and tactical approach, holds notable wins over former champions Patricky Pitbull and Benson Henderson, competing in what is considered one of MMAโ€™s most competitive divisions. The October meeting will mark his latest defence against one of his closest rivals.

    Corey Anderson vs. Dovlet Yagshimuradov

    The co-main event will revisit a previous encounter between former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Corey Anderson (19-6) and reigning PFL Light Heavyweight Tournament Champion Dovlet Yagshimuradov (25-7-1). Anderson won their first match in the 2021 Bellator World Grand Prix Quarterfinal by third-round stoppage. Since that bout, Anderson has collected the Bellator title and recently halted 2024 PFL Heavyweight Champion Denis Goltsov. Yagshimuradov, representing Turkmenistan, has gone unbeaten in his last seven fights, securing the PFL light heavyweight belt with a victory over Impa Kasanganay.

    2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peรฑuela / PFL)

    PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai โ€“ The Rematch

    The undercard will include an undefeated heavyweight meeting between Pouya Rahmani (4-0) and Slim Trabelsi (8-0). Also scheduled is a 165-pound grudge bout between Zubaira Tukhugov (20-6-1) and Artem Lobov (14-15-1), originally planned for 2018 but cancelled after the UFC 229 post-fight incident. In welterweight action, 2024 PFL MENA Champion Omar El Dafrawy (14-5) meets PFL Europe Champion Florim Zendeli (10-1-1), with both fighters riding unbeaten streaks.

    2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peรฑuela / PFL)

    The event is part of the PFLโ€™s ongoing โ€œRoad to Dubaiโ€ initiative, run in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Launched in November 2024, the campaign has brought multiple international MMA cards to the UAE and will culminate in the Road to Dubai Finale in January.

    PFL CEO John Martin called the October event one of the leagueโ€™s biggest nights, noting the significance of staging two championship fights in Dubai. He cited the cityโ€™s growing position as a host for major MMA events and the PFLโ€™s role in presenting high-level competition on a global stage.

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Says Usman Nurmagomedov Will Rematch Paul Hughes In October

    Khabib Nurmagomedov Says Usman Nurmagomedov Will Rematch Paul Hughes In October

    Perhaps one of the most talked about fighters in PFL over the past year has been Paul Hughes — and one of the most talked about fights over the past year in the organization is Usman Nurmagomedov’s narrow, controversial win over Hughes at PFL Champions Series 1 in January to retain the Bellator lightweight title in its final title bout ever.

    Many in the MMA community have wondered since, and some even begged the PFL, to make the rematch — undoubtedly one of the promotion’s most anticipated and hoped-for bouts ever. And if the words of Usman’s cousin, Khabib Nurmagomedov, are anything to listen to, he has offered hope.

    During a conversation with the streamer Sneako, the retired undefeated former UFC lightweight champion suggests that Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 has been signed on for October.

    Specifically, according to Khabib Nurmagomedov, the fight would take place on October 4 in Dubai. If true, and given the PFL event dates known thus far for fall (with PFL MENA and Europe holding semifinal events the weekend of Sept. 26-28) this could potentially serve as the headliner of a third PFL Champions Series event.

    Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes To Take Place In Dubai On October 4?

    If Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 follows the circumstances set by Johnny Eblen vs. Costello Van Steenis a couple of weeks ago, the winner of this bout would most likely be named the inaugural PFL lightweight champion.

    In what was one of the more entertaining fights in MMA during 2025, Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes this past January featured plenty of high-paced striking exchanges, strong clinch battles, and late-fight drama, courtesy of Nurmagomedov getting deducted a point.

    Hughes, who fired off a strong late flurry, was unable to get the win controversially. While one judge scored the bout a 47-47 draw, the other two judges gave 48-46 totals in Nurmagomedov’s favor.

    Hughes rebounded from the loss with a 42-second finish of Bruno Miranda at the PFL Europe event in Belfast this past May.

    Nurmagomedov has not been in action since defeating Hughes.

  • ‘An Absolute Superstar’ – Fans React To Paul Hughes Starching Bruno Miranda In PFL Belfast Main Event

    ‘An Absolute Superstar’ – Fans React To Paul Hughes Starching Bruno Miranda In PFL Belfast Main Event

    “Big News” is the big news coming out of PFL Europe’s event in Belfast.

    Paul Hughes fulfilled his dream of competing at the SSE Arena in Belfast and made an impact while doing so, finishing Bruno Miranda in less than a minute in the evening’s featured bout.

    Miranda opened the fight with a series of kicks, mainly focusing on the legs of Hughes. But all it took was one counter for the fight to turn things on a dime and end quickly. Hughes caught a kick and landed a left hook that dropped Miranda. Hughes followed up with a barrage of ground-and-pound until the referee stepped in, awarding the fight to Hughes after just 42 seconds.

    Paul Hughes Ends PFL Belfast Main Event In 42 Seconds, Calls Out Usman Nurmagomedov For Rematch

    https://twitter.com/ProchazkaSzn/status/1921309712055783802

    Hughes signed with the PFL in 2024, debuting at the Bellator Champions Series event in June 2024, finishing Bobby King. Hughes then scored a major victory over A.J. McKee at the Battle of the Giants card in October before challenging Usman Nurmagomedov for the Bellator lightweight title in the main card of PFL’s Road to Dubai event in January — a fight Hughes lost via a controversial decision.

    Hughes called out Nurmagomedov for a re-match following the win.

    Miranda has now lost three of his last four. Miranda made the semi-finals of the 2023 PFL lightweight season, losing to Olivier Aubin-Mercier.

  • Paul Hughes Hits Back At ‘Trend’ Of Hating On PFL

    Paul Hughes Hits Back At ‘Trend’ Of Hating On PFL

    Paul Hughes is going all out in standing his ground and defending the promotion he represents, the PFL.

    Since acquiring Bellator MMA in November 2023, PFL has faced frequent criticism. Many fighters, including high-profile names like Patchy Mix, have expressed frustration, claiming they have been sidelined and given limited chances since the merger. Patricio Pitbull was also among those seeking an exit, with his release recently granted.

    The budding MMA promotion has also faced allegations of trimming its roster while pressuring fighters into accepting significant pay cuts, despite its structured pay system.

    The latest to launch a scathing critique is former UFC fighter and Bellator veteran Josh Thomson, who called out PFL and its top brass, Donn Davis and Pete Murray. He accused them of neglecting the organization’s brand development and failing to establish a clear vision for its future.

    During a recent interview with MMA Junkie, “The Punk” didnโ€™t hold back, slamming PFL as mismanaged and urging them to “get their sh*t together.” However, the New York-based MMA promotionโ€™s current biggest star sees things differently.

    On Friday, Hughes took to X to respond to Thomsonโ€™s criticism of PFL, calling out the growing trend of negativity toward the promotion. He passionately defended the organization, highlighting its positive aspects and expressing deep gratitude for the profound impact it has had on his career.

    “The PFL MMA have provided me the platform to completely change my life and my career in 9 months. The staff have been absolutely amazing to deal with the entire time. I find it disappointing that it has become a trend to hate on them. They are the UNDERDOGS, fighting to make a CHANGE in an industry where the athletes are under served and underpaid. MOST of us fighters end up leaving the game with no money (and a lot of brain damage). This will only change if organisations like PFL continue to succeed. Thankyou PFL MMA” Paul Hughes wrote on X.

    “Big News” signed with PFL last May. In just three fights under its banner, the 27-year-old Irishman has already become a fan favorite and one of the promotionโ€™s biggest draws.

    Paul Hughes was last seen in competition at PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai in January, where he fell just short in his quest for the title, suffering a majority decision loss to reigning lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov.

    “Big News” is now set to return to action in the headlining bout of PFL Europeโ€™s first event of the year, where he will face Bruno Miranda on May 10 at The SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

  • Paul Hughes’ Opponent For PFL Belfast Homecoming Revealed

    Paul Hughes’ Opponent For PFL Belfast Homecoming Revealed

    PFL star Paul Hughes now has a target in his sights for later this year.

    Hughes (13-2) boosted his stock despite a loss in January when he battled Usman Nurmagomedov for the Bellator lightweight titleย in the main event of PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai.

    While he was largely dismissed by the Russian standout during the build-up, โ€œBig Newsโ€ pushed him to the limit across five rounds. Some even maintain that the ex-Cage Warriors champion did enough to deserve the victory,ย a sentiment shared by Hughes himself.

    With that in mind, the Northern Irishman was quick to call for an immediate rematch in his native country, and he appeared to have the backing of the PFL higher-ups and many in the community.

    But with Nurmagomedov seemingly planning to sit out until September or October, Hughes has had to settle for just half of his callout coming to fruition.

    After much speculation, the PFL officially confirmed this week that Paul Hughes will headline a PFL Europe event in his country’s capital city, Belfast, on May 10.

    And an opponent has now been attached to Hughes’ return, with “Big News” lined up to share the cage with Bruno Miranda (17-5), a former PFL semifinalist who most recently defeated Patricky Pitbull.

    Paul Hughes will look to return to winning ways at Miranda’s expense and stake his claim for a second showdown with Nurmagomedov before the year’s end.

  • Paul Hughes Set To Return At PFL Event In Northern Ireland Four Months On From Nurmagomedov Battle

    Paul Hughes Set To Return At PFL Event In Northern Ireland Four Months On From Nurmagomedov Battle

    PFL star Paul Hughes has gotten his wish โ€” or, at the very least, half of it.

    Hughes enhanced his reputation in defeat earlier this year when he challenged for Usman Nurmagomedov’s Bellator lightweight title in the main event of PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai.

    Despite being largely dismissed by the Dagestani during the lead-up, “Big News” pushed him to the limit across five rounds. Some even believed the former Cage Warriors champion did enough to deserve the nod, a sentiment shared by the man himself.

    With that in mind, Hughes was quick to call for an immediate rematch in his native country. In that regard, he appeared to have the support of the PFL higher-ups and many in the MMA community.

    But with Nurmagomedov reportedly planning to sit out until the fall, the Northern Irishman has seemingly had to settle for just one of his wishes.

    In a social media post this weekend, Hughes recorded a video in front of a sign advertising a PFL event in Belfast this coming May 10. News of that event was first reported by Al Zullino last week, and the locals look set to see their leading man in action at the top of the card.

    “Dreams come true,” Hughes wrote. “May 10th- SSE Arena Belfast. Apparently Usman needs a wee break. So who the f*ck wants it?” #HOMECOMING”

    With a second dance opposite Nurmagomedov appearing out of the equation for the time being, it remains to be seen who the PFL will line up to share the cage with Hughes in hostile territory later this year.

  • Paul Hughes Shrugs Off Conor McGregor’s Social Media Tirade: ‘I Wasn’t Offended At All’

    Paul Hughes Shrugs Off Conor McGregor’s Social Media Tirade: ‘I Wasn’t Offended At All’

    Paul Hughes isnโ€™t sparing a second thought on Conor McGregorโ€™s social media outbursts directed at him.

    Hughes is fresh off a hard-fought five-round war at PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai, where he dropped a majority decision to lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov this past Saturday โ€” a performance that initially even had McGregor singing his praises.

    However, all hell broke loose after a video of “Big News” sharing an in-cage moment with Khabib Nurmagomedov in the aftermath of his fight went viral on social media, where he attempted to distance himself from McGregor. The clip ultimately caught the attention of “The Notorious” himself.

    McGregor lashed out at Hughes, firing off a series of now-deleted tweets that mocked his fellow Irishman and targeted his Northern Irish roots. In reply, the 27-year-old first extended a measure of respect to McGregor, all the while probing the former UFC two-division championโ€™s mental clarity.

    During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hughes broke down McGregor’s social media outburst, calmly stating that he wasnโ€™t the slightest bit offended by the UFC superstarโ€™s public tirade.

    “Big News” explained that he understands McGregorโ€™s tendency to let his emotions run wild online, brushing off the insults with an air of indifference.

    “I wasn’t offended at all,” Hughes said. “A lot of people in Ireland, especially in Northern Ireland, could be deeply affected by the things he said, but I’m not actually offended or didnโ€™t take it personally at all because it sounds bad, but it just seems like another day in his lifeโ€”just tweeting madness. It’s not like I saw that and went, ‘Oh, you know what, I can’t believe he said this about me.’ I think it’s just another day in his life for him, and I just don’t have any opinion on it anymore… In fact, I just laughed at it when I saw it. It’s not something that Iโ€™ve been thinking about all day.”

    Hughes, who had originally extended an invitation to “The Notorious” to be in his corner for the Nurmagomedov fight, went on to express that while he has always respected what McGregor has done for the sport, the 36-year-old Irishman’s words no longer resonate with him.

    “I’ve always shown respect to Conor at every opportunity. Iโ€™ve consistently called him the greatest to ever do it, and Iโ€™ll always believe that. But honestly, it just didnโ€™t bother me coming from him because his words donโ€™t carry the same weight anymore.”

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Sends Supportive Message To Paul Hughes After Conor McGregor’s Attack: ‘You Are A Real Irishman!’

    Khabib Nurmagomedov Sends Supportive Message To Paul Hughes After Conor McGregor’s Attack: ‘You Are A Real Irishman!’

    Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has unsurprisingly taken aim at longtime rival Conor McGregor and backed Paul Hughes in the Irishman’s sudden back and forth with “The Notorious.”

    The relationship between Hughes and McGregor has taken a firm downward turn this week after footage emerged of “Big News” discussing Ireland’s most prominent fighter while in conversation with Khabib.

    Hughes spoke to “The Eagle” inside the cage at the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event last weekend, where the former Cage Warriors standout pushed Khabib’s cousin, Usman Nurmagomedov, all the way in their Bellator lightweight title fight.

    While much of the lead-up had been heated with a “Dagestan vs. Ireland” narrative, Usman showed respect to Hughes after taking the decision win. And the defeated challenger was keen to express to the opposition team that he’s far from the same as another Irish fighter whose controversial nature Khabib got to know very well a few years ago.

    Footage of Hughes making that point to the former UFC champ quickly went viral and found its way to McGregor, who has since been slamming “Big News” in a series of tweets, one of which saw him question Hughes’ Irish heritage.

    Though Hughes has been garnering support with his own firm responses to McGregor, he also received some backing from “The Eagle,” who branded his rival a “rapist and drug addict” in a post on his Instagram Stories.

    “You are a real Irishman @paulhughesmma and not a rapist and drug addict like this bastard,” Nurmagomedov wrote.

    McGregor was recently embroiled in a civil court case after being accused of rape by Nikita Hand. He was found civilly liable for the assault late last year and forced to pay the victim almost โ‚ฌ250,000.

    The Irishman’s troubles appear far from ending, too, after he was sued by a woman who claims he sexually assaulted her during the Heat vs. Celtics NBA game in June 2023.

  • VIDEO: Paul Hughes Distances Himself From Conor McGregor During In-Cage Conversation With Khabib

    VIDEO: Paul Hughes Distances Himself From Conor McGregor During In-Cage Conversation With Khabib

    It doesn’t look like the PFL will be drawing a link between Paul Hughes and Conor McGregor going forward. In the build-up to Hughes’ title fight against Usman Nurmagomedov this past weekend, the promotion used the prior history between Dagestan and Ireland to promote the fight.

    With the Bellator lightweight champion being cornered by his cousin, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Hughes had even mentioned having McGregor with him at one stage but any plans for this to happen quickly fell apart for multiple reasons, including the former UFC star’s civil assault case and his commitments with BKFC.

    Following an incredible fight at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, video footage shows Hughes sharing a quick word with Khabib where there is a clear mutual respect between them. The challenger can be seen referencing “The Notorious” and how they are not the same person in a short clip from Will Harris’ “Anatomy Of A Fighter”.

    “I’m not like this other guy, I’m my own man. I’m not like this other guy.”

    Once the clip was posted on social media, it quickly caught the attention of McGregor who has exchanged compliments with Hughes on multiple occasions. That being said, the public opinion surrounding “The Mac” has changed a lot in recent times and his previous actions shouldn’t influence the way that “Big News” is perceived.

    McGregor hit back at Hughes in a series of now deleted posts which took a swipe at the Irish pride of the 27-year old rising star.

    Hughes posted a short response to some of the comments made by McGregor in reaction to the video footage. He makes it clear that he has always given his fellow Irishman respect for what he has achieved in the sport.

  • Former Bellator Analyst Calls Out Usman Nurmagomedov’s ‘Weird’ Comment After Paul Hughes Win

    Former Bellator Analyst Calls Out Usman Nurmagomedov’s ‘Weird’ Comment After Paul Hughes Win

    While Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes showed nothing but respect for one another in the aftermath of their battle at Saturday’s PFL event, a former fighter wasn’t impressed with one aspect of the Bellator lightweight champion’s post-fight approach.

    The Professional Fighters League kicked off its schedule for 2025 with the Champions Series: Road to Dubai card inside Coca-Cola Arena, where Nurmagomedov and Hughes collided in a clash dubbed “Dagestan vs. Ireland 2.”

    Like other results on the night, the win went to the former region, with the reigning Bellator titleholder emerging with the gold still in his possession by narrow margins.

    Nurmagomedov had been largely dismissive of Hughes throughout the buildup, but he got a rude awakening when “Big News” gave him about all he could handle across five rounds in the Middle East.

    The Dagestani acknowledged that he had underestimated his challenger, who echoed the sentiments of some in the community by suggesting he did enough to deserve the victory. With that in mind, he demanded an immediate rematch.

    The champ, however, isn’t keen. And he went as far as to claim that the Irishman will need to beat three or four other opponents to earn a second opportunity.

    During an episode of his Weighing In podcast alongside former referee John McCarthy, ex-UFC fighter Josh Thomson reacted to that suggestion.

    “I didn’t like hearing Usman Nurmagomedov in the back saying, ‘No, he’s got to fight three or four more other fighters.’ That was weird,” Nurmagomedov said. “There’s not even three or four more other fighters in your guys’ weight class.”

    Though Usman has made his stance clear, that hasn’t stopped Hughes from making his case. He recently responded to an invitation to visit Dagestan from Khabib Nurmagomedov by insisting a rematch with his cousin must come first.

    The PFL, meanwhile, hasn’t divulged its plans for either man moving forward.

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Invites Ireland’s Paul Hughes To Dagestan After PFL Battle With Cousin Usman

    Khabib Nurmagomedov Invites Ireland’s Paul Hughes To Dagestan After PFL Battle With Cousin Usman

    After a respectful exchange inside the cage at Saturday’s PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event, that trend has continued between the Nurmagomedov family and Paul Hughes on social media.

    For a second time this month, a Nurmagomedov was involved in an early Fight of the Year contender. But while Umar came on the losing side of his at UFC 311 in Los Angeles, the bantamweight’s brother Usman had his hand raised in Dubai this past Saturday.

    The Bellator lightweight champion kept the gold in his possession with a hard-fought decision victory over Paul Hughes at the PFL’s first event of the year.

    Following a heated lead-up fueled by promotional material that dubbed the clash Dagestan vs. Ireland 2 โ€” a reference to Khabib and Conor McGregorโ€™s heated rivalry โ€” the pair buried any hatchet that existed post-fight.

    On Usman’s part, he admitted to underestimating “Big News,” whom some believe did enough to deserve the championship. Khabib, meanwhile, has also been giving Hughes praise.

    In fact, the former UFC champion was so impressed โ€” and keen to show that his animosity lies solely at McGregor’s feet rather than Ireland as a whole โ€” that he’s even offered to host Hughes in his native Dagestan.

    “Thank you for the fight @paulhughesmma and for the experience,” Khabib Nurmagomedov wrote. “I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want, believe me you will like it and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations”

    The ex-Cage Warriors standout was quick to respond, outlining his respect for the lightweight legend.

    But when it comes to taking “The Eagle” up on his offer, Hughes had one condition that must be fulfilled first: a rematch.

    “Thankyou @TeamKhabib I have great respect for you, your team and your nation,” Hughes wrote. “I would be honoured to take you up on this offer someday and then return the favour in Ireland. But please, only after I get to rematch Usman.”

    It remains to be seen what the PFL will have in store for Usman Nurmagomedov and Hughes moving forward.

    While many have echoed the Irishman’s calls for an immediate second dance, the champ suggested backstage at the Coca-Cola Arena that “Big News” requires three or four wins to earn another shot.

  • Paul Hughes Slams ‘Ridiculous’ Scorecards After Narrow Defeat To Usman Nurmagomedov

    Paul Hughes Slams ‘Ridiculous’ Scorecards After Narrow Defeat To Usman Nurmagomedov

    Paul Hughes is livid over how the judges scored his fight against Usman Nurmagomedov.

    On Saturday, Hughes challenged reigning Bellator lightweight champion Nurmagomedov in the headline clash of the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai at the Coca-Cola Arena in the UAE.

    Despite entering the fight as a heavy underdog, “Big News” delivered an exceptional performance, pushing the undefeated Dagestani phenom to the brink over five grueling rounds. Hughes countered every challenge Nurmagomedov threw his way and showcased his dominance in various exchanges throughout the bout.

    However, Nurmagomedov found his rhythm between the rounds, leveraging his wrestling to gain control over Hughes, who couldn’t sway the judges despite his opponent’s point deduction for low blows in the third round.

    After 25 minutes of intense back-and-forth action, two judges scored the contest 48-46 in favor of Nurmagomedov, while the third saw it as a 47-47 draw, allowing the champion to retain his title.

    Moments following the conclusion of the fight, “Big News” took to Instagram to voice his frustration with the judges’ scoring. The Irishman confidently claimed that, in his eyes, he had done more than enough to seal the win for himself.

    “We all thought I won that one,” Hughes said. “I think the judgesโ€™ scorecards were pretty ridiculous. But Iโ€™ll watch it back with a clear mind. Iโ€™m just judging from the energy of the arena and everyone surrounding the cage that thought it was mine. Iโ€™m not going to make excuses, though. I shouldโ€™ve pushed harder. And I will the next time. I know weโ€™ll fight again.”

    Hughes went on to explain that the accidental head clash in the fourth round swung the fight’s momentum, insisting that up until that point, he had been on the verge of overwhelming Nurmagomedov.

    In his post-fight interview, the 27-year-old fervently expressed his desire to run it back, this time in front of his home crowd in Belfast. He once again called for an immediate rematch to settle the score with the Russian.

    “Iโ€™m obviously disappointed. Iโ€™m gutted. Iโ€™m proud of myself, but I need to get that back. I deserve to have that belt.”

  • ‘I Underestimated This Guy’ – Usman Nurmagomedov Eats His Words After Grueling Fight With Paul Hughes

    ‘I Underestimated This Guy’ – Usman Nurmagomedov Eats His Words After Grueling Fight With Paul Hughes

    Usman Nurmagomedov now knows firsthand just how formidable Paul Hughes is.

    Nurmagomedov defended his Bellator lightweight title against Hughes in the main event of PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai, held at the Coca-Cola Arena in the UAE on Saturday night.

    The undefeated Dagestani went the full five rounds with “Big News,” with several instances where it was clear he was struggling to match the intensity of the determined challenger, even with his renowned, wrestling-heavy style.

    However, following the tightly contested fight, Nurmagomedov managed to impress two judges with his performance, earning 48-46 scores, even after a point was deducted for groin strikes in the third round. The third judge scored the bout a 47-47 draw.

    Ahead of their clash, the 155-pound champion consistently downplayed Hughes as a legitimate threat, undermining the Irishman by claiming he wasn’t worthy of the title shot. But after 25 minutes in the cage with him, Nurmagomedov now realizes just how misguided his assumptions were.

    In his post-fight interview, Nurmagomedov openly admitted his mistake in overlooking “Big News” and gave credit where it was due.

    “Paul Hughes, brother, you are the man, brother,” Nurmagomedov said. “Youโ€™re really the man. Brother, you are tough. Honestly, I underestimated this guy. Whew. It was my little mistake, but still undefeated, undisputed, Bellator lightweight champion, Usman Nurmagomedov.”

    The Russian went on to heap further praise on Hughes, commending his versatile game plan and acknowledging his opponent’s incredible resilience in the face of adversity.

    “His wrestling defense, takedown defense [was] very well. Heโ€™s tough, heโ€™s strong. I didnโ€™t think he would be this strong. Brother, you are really strong. You tell me in the face to face, this was my mistake, you were right, brother. Thank you so much. I never take this damage, what I take with him in this fight. I have a lot of pain on my body. Brother, thank you for this fight. I think I jumped to next level because of him. He make me better than I was today. And I think, for sure, he got better, too. Thank you so much, Paul. I really respect you brother.โ€

  • ‘Did What McGregor Couldn’t’ – Jake Paul, Belal Muhammad, Dustin Poirier & Others React As Paul Hughes Pushes Usman Nurmagomedov To The Limit

    ‘Did What McGregor Couldn’t’ – Jake Paul, Belal Muhammad, Dustin Poirier & Others React As Paul Hughes Pushes Usman Nurmagomedov To The Limit

    In what is certainly going to be an early nominee for the 2025 Fight of the Year in MMA, Usman Nurmagomedov will likely end up as the final defending Bellator champion in the brand’s history.

    Nurmagomedov narrowly retained the Bellator lightweight title in a five-round war with Paul Hughes in the main event of the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event at the Coca-Cola Arena on Jan. 25.

    The Dagestani started aggressively, utilizing a variety of kicks to test his range before putting his striking on full display. Hughes found his rhythm and picked up his pace in the second, mixing initial strikes and counters. The champ kept up his kicks and clinch attempts, but he struggled to secure a takedown early. Both fighters traded combinations, with Nurmagomedov focused on knees and elbows as the challenger ripped to the body. The second round proved to arguably be the most difficult to score.

    The fight was marred a bit by groin strikes during the third round, which resulted in the defending champion being docked a point. The Russian, however, rebounded with a takedown and controlling the action against the fence. Hughes kept active before both men’s output increased in a big way during the fourth round, including a ferocious exchanging in the final minute.

    Nurmagomedov looked to use his grappling more in the final round, while simultaneously landing hard with knees on Hughes’ body. But the Irishman continued to push forward, landing combinations when possible before swinging wildly and taking over in the fight’s final, dramatic 30 seconds.

    One judge scored the fight a 47-47 draw, while the other two gave 48-46 scorecards, giving Nurmagomedov the win.

    Usman Nurmagomedov Defeats Paul Hughes In Early Fight Of The Year War

    Nurmagomedov became champion initially with a win over Patricky Pitbull at Bellator 288. His title defenses prior to tonight included a win over Benson Henderson, a no contest against Brent Primus, and a victory over Alexander Shabliy.

    The result in Dubai snaps a seven-fight win streak for Hughes. He earned a title shot off wins over Bobby King last summer and AJ McKee at the PFL: Battle of the Giants card in October.

  • PFL Road To Dubai Champions Series Results & Highlights: Usman Nurmagomedov Outlasts Paul Hughes

    PFL Road To Dubai Champions Series Results & Highlights: Usman Nurmagomedov Outlasts Paul Hughes

    The PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event took place on Saturday, and MMA News has you covered with all the action.

    After announcing a slew of changes to its organization for 2025, including the elimination of the Bellator brand, the Professional Fighters League kicked things off for this year with a Bellator champion defending their gold.

    In the main event of today’s event at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, lightweight kingpin Usman Nurmagomedov faced the challenge of highly regarded Irishman Paul Hughes โ€” a headliner branded ‘Dagestani vs. Ireland 2’ promotionally in reference to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor’s heated rivalry from a number of years ago.

    The gold stayed put by narrow margins, with Nurmagomedov getting the nod on two of the three scorecards for the majority decision win following five rounds of competitive and enthralling action.

    Two other clashes between Dagestani and Irish fighters went down on the main card, with Nathan Kelly battling Akhmed Magomedov and Kenny Mokhonoana meeting Ibragim Ibragimov.

    And just before the main attraction, former Bellator light heavyweight champ Vadim Nemkov faced his next heavyweight challenge in the co-main event, sharing the SmartCage with ex-UFC contender and 2024 PFL heavyweight season semifinalist Tim Johnson. In what marked the final fight of his contract, the Russian netted a quick first-round submission.

    With the event concluded, see below for the full results and all the best highlights!

    PFL Champions Series: Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes Results & Highlights

    Main Card:

    • Bellator Lightweight Championship Main Event: Usman Nurmagomedov def. Paul Hughes via majority decision (47-47, 48-46, 48-46)
    • Heavyweight Co-Main Event: Vadim Nemkov def. Tim Johnson via submission (rear-naked choke): R1, 3:08
    • Featherweight: Akhmed Magomedov def. Nathan Kelly via submission (rear-naked choke): R2, 4:22
    • Featherweight: Ibragim Ibragimov def. Kenny Mokhonoana via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
    • Bantamweight: Renat Khavalov def. Cleiver Fernandes via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Catchweight (199lbs): Ahmed Samy def. Tarek Suleiman via TKO (punches & elbows): R1, 5:00
    • Lightweight: Mirafzal Akhtamov def. Mike Thompson via technical submission (arm-triangle choke): R2, 2:50
    • Flyweight: Hadi Omar Al Hussaini def. Ruel Panales via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)
    • Lightweight: John Mitchell def. Souhil Tairi via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
    • Middleweight: Haider Khan def. Mostafa Nada via TKO (arm injury): R1, 3:18
    • Amateur Lightweight: Talal Alqallaf def. Saeed Alhosani via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-28, 30-27)

    Talal Alqallaf Def. Saeed Alhosani

    Haider Khan Def. Mostafa Nada

    John Mitchell Def. Souhil Tairi

    Hadi Omar Al Hussaini Def. Ruel Panales

    Mirafzal Akhtamov Def. Mike Thompson

    Ahmed Samy Def. Tarek Suleiman

    Renat Khavalov Def. Cleiver Fernandes

    Ibragim Ibragimov Def. Kenny Mokhonoana

    Akhmed Magomedov Def. Nathan Kelly

    Vadim Nemkov Def. Tim Johnson

    Usman Nurmagomedov Def. Paul Hughes

  • Usman Nurmagomedov Vows To ‘Destroy’ Paul Hughes: ‘PFL Gave Him This Title Shot Only Because He’s From Ireland’

    Usman Nurmagomedov Vows To ‘Destroy’ Paul Hughes: ‘PFL Gave Him This Title Shot Only Because He’s From Ireland’

    Usman Nurmagomedov remains dismissive of Paul Hughesโ€™ prospects of dethroning him.

    Nurmagomedov is set to put his Bellator lightweight title on the line against Hughes in the main event of the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. The highly anticipated showdown is scheduled for this Saturday at the Coca-Cola Arena in the UAE.

    The matchup has been dubbed โ€œDagestan vs. Ireland 2,โ€ rekindling the intense rivalry between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor that unfolded during their unforgettable UFC 229 showdown in October 2018. Usman and Hughes have channeled a comparable intensity, with their growing animosity building throughout the lead-up to their bout.

    During a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Nurmagomedov expressed his belief that “Big News” hasn’t earned his title shot, asserting that he was handed the chance more because his narrative aligned with PFL’s promotional strategy than for any significant accomplishment.

    “Brother, nobody knows who is Paul Hughes,โ€ Nurmagomedov said.”He can talk something only because he wants to promote himself. PFL gave him this title shot only because heโ€™s from Ireland, and they want to promote Ireland vs. Dagestan โ€“ something like that. I got my title shot when I was on a six-fight win streak, but I donโ€™t care.”

    When this fight was announced, Usman’s cousin, UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, boldly stated in a promotional interview that the skill level of Dagestani fighters far surpasses that of their Irish counterparts, a sentiment Usman shares regarding Hughes.

    The undefeated Dagestani champion further emphasized that he’s operating on an entirely different level than his opponent, insisting it will be a straightforward task, with nothing about the Irishman’s game that could possibly catch him off guard.

    “I think after first round, I will feel who is this guy. Technically, thereโ€™s nothing he can surprise me [with] โ€“ just little boxing, little kicks, not bad takedown defense, and thatโ€™s it… Inshallah, weโ€™re going to finish this guy. I will destroy him all five rounds, or I will finish him in the first three rounds.”

    Nurmagomedov enters this bout on the back of a dominant unanimous decision victory over Alexander Shabliy at the Bellator Champions Series in San Diego last September. He currently boasts a perfect professional record of 18-0, with eight knockouts and six submissions.

    Meanwhile, “Big News” arrives at this title fight on a seven-fight win streak, having earned his opportunity with a hard-fought split decision victory over former champion AJ McKee at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants in October. Hughes holds a professional record of 13-1, with six knockouts and three submissions.

  • ‘Sh*t Getting Toxic’ – Fans React As Chaos Erupts Between Dagestani & Irish Supporters Ahead Of Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes

    ‘Sh*t Getting Toxic’ – Fans React As Chaos Erupts Between Dagestani & Irish Supporters Ahead Of Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes

    It seems the fans are wearing their national pride louder than the fighters themselves as the buzz builds for the highly anticipated Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes showdown.

    Nurmagomedov is primed to defend his lightweight crown against Hughes in the headline clash of the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. The event is slated for this Saturday at the Coca-Cola Arena in the UAE.

    The event, branded as “Dagestan vs Ireland 2,” echoes the acclaimed UFC 229 clash between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor. Much like that legendary bout, the UFC Hall of Famer’s cousin Usman and Irelandโ€™s Hughes seem to embody a feud cut from the same electrifying cloth.

    The buildup to this bout has been thick with tension, as both fighters have exchanged sharp words. “Big News” has alleged that the undefeated Dagestani has belittled his skills and insulted him, which prompted a fiery verbal confrontation between the two earlier this week.

    The fighters brought the same electric intensity to their final staredown at the ceremonial weigh-ins on Friday, where Nurmagomedov and Hughes locked eyes in a heated faceoff.

    However, the ceremonial weigh-ins for the upcoming bout felt less like a pre-fight ritual and more like a battlefield.

    According to Parry Punchโ€™s report on X, Dagestani and Irish fans reignited their bitter feud outside the Coca-Cola Arena, leading to an all-out brawl between the two factions. The exact cause of the chaos remains unclear at the moment.

    Fans were quick to react to the melee between Dagestani and Irish supporters, with many drawing parallels to the heated Khabib-McGregor rivalry, suggesting that Usman and Hughes are reigniting a national pride-fueled feud that shows no sign of fading.

    https://twitter.com/fantasiaapostle/status/1882826216711082317
    https://twitter.com/MadJim98/status/1882833498807074967
    https://twitter.com/tenziiin099/status/1882835283206701090

    Nurmagomedov will be making his third title defense. His most recent outing came last September at the Bellator Champions Series in San Diego, where he delivered a dominant performance, securing a unanimous decision victory over Alexander Shabliy to successfully retain his belt.

    Meanwhile, Hughes will be vying for the title in just his third appearance with the promotion. “Big News” is coming off a hard-fought split decision victory over AJ McKee in October at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants.

  • Ireland’s Paul Hughes Plans To Tell Khabib ‘I Told You So’ After Beating Dagestan’s Usman Nurmagomedov

    Ireland’s Paul Hughes Plans To Tell Khabib ‘I Told You So’ After Beating Dagestan’s Usman Nurmagomedov

    PFL star Paul Hughes is excited for Khabib Nurmagomedov to have a cageside view to his recent claim about Ireland being proved emphatically wrong later this month.

    Khabib, a former UFC lightweight champion, has put considerable time into coaching since ending his career as a 29-0 professional. And after cornering Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov in Los Angeles on Jan. 18, “The Eagle” will head to Dubai for Usman Nurmagomedov’s Bellator title defense.

    Ahead of the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event on Jan. 25, the Dagestani has been doing some promotional work on social media by claiming his region’s superiority over that of his cousin’s opponent, Ireland’s Hughes.

    During a recent interview with BBC Sport NI, Hughes recalled his first time seeing Khabib suggest that Ireland ‘doesn’t have fighters’, a remark that brought back memories of his crushing triumph over Conor McGregor in 2018.

    The 27-year-old expects to prove the UFC legend wrong come fight night in Dubai, and he’s got some words ready to tell “The Eagle” in the aftermath.

    “I was out with a friend, and I saw it and thought, ‘I don’t really care.’ It’s just fight stuff but it’s good for marketing, it’s good he’s doing that, but I don’t really care,” Hughes said. “I respect him as a fighter, but I don’t care what his opinion is.

    “Knowing he’ll be in Usman’s corner, I think when I win, I’ll be like, ‘I told you so,’ and that will be pleasurable but that is the competitor in me,” Hughes added.

    Hughes has also reacted plenty of times on social media, first telling Khabib that McGregor ‘made him famous’, before most recently taking a dig at Usman’s failed drug test in 2023.

  • Paul Hughes Gives 4-Word Reaction To Khabib Nurmagomedov Claiming ‘Ireland Don’t Have Fighters’

    Paul Hughes Gives 4-Word Reaction To Khabib Nurmagomedov Claiming ‘Ireland Don’t Have Fighters’

    In a recent social media video posted by the PFL, Khabib Nurmagomedov criticized the credibility of Irish fighters. The former UFC lightweight champion has his own well-documented history with one fighter in particular from this region which led to the biggest fight in the history of the sport seven years ago.

    For team Khabib, they’ve got an extremely busy start to 2025 as after UFC 311 takes place, where Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov will feature at the top of the card, it’s Usman Nurmagomedov’s turn at the PFL’s Road to Dubai event on January 25. At the Coca-Cola Arena, the undefeated Bellator lightweight champion will defend his title against Ireland’s Paul Hughes in a highly anticipated showdown.

    Following Hughes’ prompt, the promotion has marketed the main event as the next instalment in the MMA rivalry between Ireland and Dagestan but Khabib doesn’t think that this is any kind of competition. Despite the amount of success that Ireland has had in combat sports despite its population, “The Eagle” is yet to be impressed by what the emerald isle has to offer, especially in regards to comparisons with Dagestan.

    โ€œIreland donโ€™t have fighters, brother,โ€ Nurmagomedov said in anย interview with PFL. โ€œLetโ€™s be honest: How many fighters from Ireland? Paul Hughes and Conor. Who else? There is no fighters, brother. You come to Dagestan, you can understand. So many organizations, they donโ€™t even want to sign Dagestan fighters because they worry about like, everybody can become champion.

    โ€œLetโ€™s be honest: Dagestan level of MMA here (up high),โ€ Nurmagomedov said. โ€œBut Ireland level, like not even half of Dagestan level.โ€

    Hughes’ response was simple and to the point. With coach Khabib seemingly having a front row seat for January 25 from the corner of the defending champion, “Big News” is excited to prove him wrong.

  • Paul Hughes No Longer Interested In Conor McGregor Cornering For Nurmagomedov Fight: ‘With Things Going Down Now…’

    Paul Hughes No Longer Interested In Conor McGregor Cornering For Nurmagomedov Fight: ‘With Things Going Down Now…’

    Paul Hughes has done a complete about-face regarding his enthusiasm for having Conor McGregor in the corner for his upcoming fight.

    When Hughes triumphed over AJ McKee at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants in October, he passionately floated the idea of enlisting his Irish compatriot, “The Notorious,” to join his corner for a potential title clash with reigning Bellator Lightweight Champion Usman Nurmagomedov.

    At the time, McGregor pledged his support, expressing interest in standing in Hughesโ€™ corner. The opportunity to reignite his storied rivalry with UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov โ€” Usmanโ€™s first cousin and an almost certain presence in his corner โ€” added an intriguing layer to the matchup.

    “Big News” is now gearing up to face Nurmagomedov in the headline bout of the Road to Dubai Champions Series, set for Jan. 25 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, U.A.E. Surprisingly, though, he has decided to abandon his earlier plan of attempting to secure the former two-division UFC champion’s services for the biggest fight of his career to date.

    During a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Hughes said that he was simply toying with the idea and explained that he has no real plans to bring McGregor into his corner for the highly anticipated title clash.

    “Look, I mean the whole corner thing, that was the post-fight interview where things were just being thrown there,” Hughes said. “Other than, that just blew up and did the rounds on social media a couple of times. Other than that, I havenโ€™t mentioned it or looked about anything to do that.”

    “Big News” further explained that, given McGregor’s involvement in a whirlwind of controversy following an Irish court ruling last month that he was liable for the assault of a woman who accused him of rape in 2018, it would be unwise to enlist the sport’s most iconic figure for his corner.

    “Obviously with things going down now, itโ€™s not something Iโ€™m going to continue to pursue.”

    However, Hughes also mentioned that he would prefer to have another fellow Irishman, UFC welterweight sensation Ian Garry, in his corner.

    Interestingly, “The Future” had previously offered his support, suggesting the idea of returning the favor after Hughes cornered him in 2021 during his title fight under the Cage Warriors banner.