Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes Reignite Rivalry in Dubai this October
Some rivalries are born, while others are forged in fire.
In January, Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes went five rounds in a war that left fans breathless and pundits calling it a Fight of the Year candidate. Nurmagomedov left Dubai with his undefeated record and the PFL Lightweight World Championship intact, but Hughes walked away with something just as valuable: validation as a legitimate world-class contender.
For many, it was the kind of performance that demanded an immediate rematch. Instead, Hughes was forced to take the long road back. The Belfast native did so in spectacular fashion, knocking out Bruno Miranda in just 42 seconds in front of his hometown crowd at PFL Europe.
That emphatic win paved the way for the biggest night of his career — a second crack at Nurmagomedov on October 3rd at PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai – The Rematch. This time, the stakes feel heavier. The rivalry is more intense. The anticipation is at an all-time high.
Nurmagomedov, though, isn’t convinced his rival has done enough to earn another shot at him and his PFL Lightweight World Championship.
“When a fighter loses a title shot, he must work hard, win many fights, and then deserve a second chance. In my opinion, Paul has not earned this rematch, but it doesn’t matter. For me, I am ready,” Nurmagomedov shared in an interview during a PFL Media Day in Dubai.
While victorious during their first encounter, Nurmagomedov acknowledges that Hughes pushed him to the limit back in January. This time around however, there won’t be any looking past the Irishman.
“I always work very hard, morning and evening, like I have throughout my career. Paul is not on my level, but this time I will not underestimate him. I respect him, and I will do my best.”
On the other side of the rivalry, Hughes has taken their first clash not as a setback, but as fuel.
“The last fight with Usman taught me lessons that I’ll carry forever. I’ve taken every mistake, every detail, and turned it into motivation,” Hughes said. “This time the result will be different.”
That confidence is grounded in a belief that his journey — from small-town beginnings in Belfast to headlining in Dubai — is proof that he belongs on MMA’s grandest stages.
“I’m ready. I’ve put in the hours, I’ve put in the rounds, and I believe I’m going to shock people on October 3. This time, I win.”
For Nurmagomedov, this is about proving his dominance once again. For Hughes, it’s about redemption, vindication, and the chance to shock the world.
Two fighters. One rivalry. And on October 3rd at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, only one will leave with the PFL Lightweight World Championship.
