Nurmagomedov in peak form ahead of Dubai rematch with hughes

Dagestani star Usman Nurmagomedov will face off Irish contender Paul Hughes in one of MMA’s most anticipated rematches on Friday.

The fight is part of the “Road to Dubai” Champions Series mixed martial arts event, organized jointly by the Professional Fighters League (PFL), the Dubai Sports Council, and the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai.

The clash is set to take place on October 3 at the Coca-Cola Arena, headlining the prestigious Road to Dubai Champions Series.

Back in January, the two delivered an instant classic — an early contender for Fight of the Year.

Nurmagomedov, cousin of the legendary former UFC lightweight king Khabib Nurmagomedov, scraped through by the slimmest of margins, claiming a majority decision even after being docked a point for an accidental headbutt.

Now, Northern Ireland’s rising star Hughes is back, fuelled by fire and vengeance.

He returns to Dubai with destiny in his sights, stepping into the biggest battle of his career yet. His dream? To seize the gold and carry it triumphantly home to Belfast, setting the stage for a colossal title showdown beneath the lights of Windsor Park.

During a press conference in Dubai on Tuesday, Hughes stated that he is entering the upcoming bout in peak physical and mental condition after an intensive training camp, with a clear goal of capturing the title and leaving his mark on the tournament’s history.

“I’ve put in a tremendous amount of work preparing for this moment, and I feel at my absolute best to win and deliver a performance worthy of my ambitions and the trust of my team and fans,” Hughes said.

“If I win the belt, Usman has every right to request a rematch — and I would have no problem facing him again if that’s what’s needed.”

Nurmagomedov has not fought since then but has instead spent all his time preparing for the second instalment of the rivalry.

Nurmagomedov said: “I don’t think my opponent deserves another shot, but I wouldn’t mind a fourth fight for the belt. We’ll let the action inside the cage decide the outcome.

“This time, honestly, I just have focus on this fight. The fact was, I was in my worst shape but still beat this guy. Now I’m in my best shape, you know, and I have to show the people who I am.”

Popular fighter Pouya Rahmani, who is returning to competition after a layoff due to injury and surgery, expressed his excitement to be back:

“Coming back after an injury is never easy, but I’ve worked hard and prepared thoroughly for this fight, which represents an important turning point in my career.”

Eisa Sharif Al Marzouqi, Director of Sports Events at the Dubai Sports Council, emphasized that hosting such a prestigious global event reflects Dubai’s vision of strengthening its status as a world capital for major sporting events.

He noted that the significance of this championship goes beyond competition — it also enhances the city’s presence on the international sports stage and showcases its outstanding organizational capabilities.

Marzouqi added that events like this serve as an inspiring platform for sports fans, allowing them to witness elite MMA fighters up close while also giving local and regional talent valuable opportunities to compete with world-class athletes and gain experience — a key driver for the sport’s growth in the region.

The co-main event promises fireworks of its own, as former Bellator king Corey Anderson steps into the spotlight to wage war against the dangerous Dovlet Yagshimuradov (25-7-1), with the coveted PFL light heavyweight crown hanging in the balance. Two seasoned gladiators, hardened by battles across the globe, now collide with everything at stake — legacy, gold, and glory.

But the drama doesn’t stop there. The undercard delivers a showdown steeped in history and animosity, as Artem Lobov — once a trusted training partner of Conor McGregor — makes his long-awaited return to the cage. After seven years of tension and anticipation, he finally locks horns with Zubaira Tukhugov, a fierce ally of Khabib.