Hughes vs. Nurmagomedov PFL Rematch in Dubai

Paul Hughes, 28, from Derry and former Cage Warriors featherweight champion nicknamed 'Big News', overcame repeated hand injuries and years working in construction to become one of Europe’s top MMA prospects. He faces undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov in a PFL lightweight title rematch in Dubai on October 3. Their January meeting was a Fight of the Year contender that Nurmagomedov won by majority decision (two 48‑46 cards and a 47‑47), a verdict Hughes disputes and has used as motivation. Hughes says he learned more from that five‑round war than many wins and has sharpened his game‑plan and confidence after notable victories, including over A.J. McKee and a 42‑second knockout in Belfast. Nurmagomedov — Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin — admits he underestimated Hughes and vows to be a different, improved fighter. The rematch is widely framed as a career‑defining night that could cement Hughes’s ascent to stardom or confirm Nurmagomedov’s hold on PFL lightweight gold.