Paul Hughes Faces Tough Challenge Against Usman Nurmagomedov in Bellator Lightweight Title Fight
Paul Hughes, the rising Irish MMA star, faced his toughest challenge yet as he stepped into the cage against undefeated Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov in Dubai on 25 January 2025. The fight, billed as “Dagestan vs Ireland 2,” carried significant weight, reigniting the rivalry between Irish and Dagestani fighters, a feud famously rooted in Khabib Nurmagomedov’s historic clash with Conor McGregor in 2018.
Hughes, a former Cage Warriors featherweight champion, entered the bout with a 13-1 record, riding a seven-fight win streak. His recent victory over former Bellator champion AJ McKee had catapulted him into the spotlight, earning him a shot at Nurmagomedov’s title. The Irishman, known for his relentless pressure and well-rounded skills, aimed to become the first Irish fighter to claim a Bellator title.
Nurmagomedov, however, was no ordinary opponent. The 26-year-old Dagestani, trained by his cousin Khabib and coach Javier Mendez, boasted an unblemished 18-0 record. With a mix of elite grappling and striking, Nurmagomedov had successfully defended his Bellator title multiple times, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most dominant champions.
The fight lived up to its hype, with both fighters showcasing their skills over five gruelling rounds. Nurmagomedov utilised his trademark grappling and precise striking to control much of the fight, while Hughes displayed remarkable resilience and counter-striking. Despite Hughes’ efforts, Nurmagomedov’s dominance on the ground and relentless pressure proved too much, as he secured a unanimous decision victory to retain his title.
The event marked a significant moment for the PFL, which had recently acquired Bellator and was transitioning to a unified brand. With Nurmagomedov’s victory, questions arose about his future, including potential moves to the UFC or a continued reign in the PFL. Meanwhile, Hughes, despite the loss, earned respect for his performance, solidifying his status as a top contender in the lightweight division.
The fight also highlighted the ongoing rivalry between Irish and Dagestani fighters, a narrative that continues to captivate MMA fans worldwide. As Hughes vowed to return stronger, the stage was set for future clashes between the two nations, ensuring the legacy of this storied rivalry would endure.
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