Hughes, who made his return to motion tonight in Dubai, took on unbeaten Bellator MMA light-weight kingpin, Usman Nurmagomedov — struggling a controversial majority choice (48-48, 49-46, 49-46) loss to the undefeated Russian of their heated title battle.
The loss noticed Hughes’ seven-fight profitable spree halted, having earned a shot at Nurmagomedov’s throne through a powerful choice win over former Bellator MMA featherweight titleholder and Grand Prix winner, A.J. McKee late final 12 months.
UFC as soon as extra urged to contemplate transfer for Paul Hughes are star-making efficiency
And pushing Dagestan striker, Nurmagomedov the gap tonight over the course of 5 rounds in Dubai, Hughes was as soon as extra lauded with reward from the likes of former interim UFC light-weight titleholder, Dustin Poirier — and the above-mentioned, Frevola, who claimed the above-mentioned UFC boss, White ought to have damaged the financial institution to signal him from Cage Warriors.
“Dana should have gave Hughes whatever he wanted lol,” Matt Frevola posted on his official X account. “What a fight!!! Who do you guys think won???? Both guys looked amazing.”
Dana ought to have gave Hughes no matter he needed lol What a battle!!! Who do you guys assume gained???? Each guys regarded wonderful 👏
— Matt “The Steamrolla”Frevola (@SteamRollaa) January 25, 2025
“Paul Hughes is legit!!” Dustin Poirier posted.
“The doctors were checking on Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes just stood there staring at him with blood coming down his face,” A consumer on X posted. “CINEMA.”
Staking his declare for a rematch in his return to motion in opposition to Bellator MMA kingpin, Nurmagomedov, Hughes revealed he was “heartbroken” to search out himself on the incorrect facet of tonight’s majority choice, with sights mounted on a re-run conflict in Belfast later this annum.
