By [Reporter Name – Assuming BBC Style]
Dubai – Usman Nurmagomedov secured a contentious points victory over Irishman Paul Hughes in Friday’s PFL Dubai lightweight world title bout, extending his unbeaten record despite a performance deemed insufficient by many observers. The victory, the second in a pair, reignited debate surrounding the judging in their initial clash and further solidified Nurmagomedov’s position as a dominant force in the division.
Eight months after a similar points decision raised eyebrows, Nurmagomedov once again emerged victorious, though the scorecards – 50-45, 49-46, and 48-47 – failed to fully reflect the spirited battle. Nurmagomedov, 27, declared he had won every round, arguing that Hughes’ exceptional performance was a tough challenge.
Hughes, 28, proved a formidable opponent, particularly in the early rounds. He dominated rounds two and three, utilizing a close-range strategy and earning significant plaudits for his composure. The fight was punctuated by several low blows from Nurmagomedov in the first and fourth rounds, impacting Hughes’ progression. However, he consistently recovered, showcasing a stunning kick and body shot combination in the third, culminating in a powerful right hand in the closing stages.
Throughout the contest, Khabib Nurmagomedov, the cousin of Usman, offered vocal encouragement, leading to speculation about the Russian’s ambition to transition to the UFC. Nurmagomedov, dismissing his cousin’s appeals, appeared intent on showingboat during certain moments.
Crucially, Nurmagomedov utilized takedowns with success, landing three overall – one in round one, one in round three and one in round five. These grappling exchanges proved pivotal in disrupting Hughes’ striking rhythm. While he failed to secure a submission beyond the initial low-blow affected round one, his takedowns consistently shifted the momentum. Hughes, adept at defending, managed to escape every grappling attempt.
“Why are you running?” Hughes exclaimed as Nurmagomedov retreated following a grappling exchange in the final round.
Following the victory, Nurmagomedov confidently asserted his win. Hughes, meanwhile, cut a picture of uncertainty, questioning whether he had delivered a convincing challenge.
Despite the disputed scorecards, Hughes has only suffered three defeats in his career, both against Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov, already a prodigious talent with 20 wins and one no-contest under his belt, is now poised for a potential move to the UFC in 2026, following the potential shift of teammate and former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev to welterweight.
The Russian expressed his interest in a future fight with British lightweight Alfie Davis, 33, who recently secured the PFL 2025 lightweight world tournament title. Davis defeated Gadzhi Rabadanov on points to claim the crown and £369,000 in prize money.
Nurmagomedov stated, “Who is the handsome guy from England, Alfie Davis? Anytime, anywhere, I am waiting for you.”
Hughes, signed to a long-term deal with the PFL, has several potential future opponents, including American Archie Coglhan, who emerged victorious over New Zealander Jay Jay Wilson on the undercard and could be considered a top contender.
Further bouts are anticipated as the division continues to evolve.
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