Usman Nurmagomedov Claims PFL Lightweight Title With Unanimous Win Over Paul Hughes in Dubai

Usman Nurmagomedov extended his perfect MMA record to 20-0 by defeating Paul Hughes via unanimous decision in a rematch at the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai event, winning the vacant PFL Lightweight World Championship. The fight, held at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, saw Nurmagomedov dominate with his composure and pace control, despite Hughes rallying late; judges scored the bout decisively in Nurmagomedov's favor. Nurmagomedov dedicated his victory to his father and received support from his team, including his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov and coach Javier Mendez, who oversaw his preparation. In addition to the lightweight title fight, Corey Anderson captured the PFL Light Heavyweight World Championship by unanimous decision over Dovlet Yagshimuradov in a co-main event rematch. The event also featured a bantamweight title eliminator between Magomed Magomedov and Sergio Pettis. Nurmagomedov's win further cements his dominance in the lightweight division and adds to one of the PFL's defining rivalries.