Uncrowned has delivered the much-anticipated PFL Dubai results, live round-by-round updates, highlights, and start time for the highly expected Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes 2 fight card. The event took place on Friday at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, drawing significant attention from MMA fans worldwide. This rematch features undefeated lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov aiming to once again thwart Paul Hughes’ title aspirations in what is shaping up to be one of the standout bouts of 2025.
Usman Nurmagomedov, sitting at an impressive 19-0 with one no contest, has been heralded as one of the sport’s rising stars within the 155-pound category. Since making his Bellator debut in April 2021 with a flawless 12-0 record, Nurmagomedov has dominated his competition, securing the Bellator lightweight championship and defending it twice. His transition to PFL only added to his accolades, culminating in him capturing the PFL lightweight title by a majority decision against none other than Paul Hughes earlier this year. That initial encounter was arguably the most challenging battle of Nurmagomedov’s career, earning itself a rightful place as a top contender for Fight of the Year honors in 2025.
On the other side of the cage, Paul Hughes entered the rematch with a respectable 13-2 record and a history of near-perfect performances. His only setback before facing Nurmagomedov was a split-decision loss to Jordan Vucenic back in 2020. After that, Hughes went on a winning spree, collecting seven straight victories. One of the standout moments in his career was his surprise victory over former Bellator champion AJ McKee during his PFL debut, securing his first title shot. Post the epic Nurmagomedov clash, Hughes has remained formidable, finishing Bruno Miranda with a swift 42-second strike victory in May, signaling his continued threat in the division.
The co-main event spotlighted the light heavyweight division and featured another thrilling title fight rematch. PFL champion Corey Anderson faced off against Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov. Their history dates back to April 2021 when Anderson secured a win via third-round stoppage. Yagshimuradov, however, has been on a tear since then, amassing a 7-1 record and currently riding a seven-fight winning streak — setting the stage for a gripping rematch.
PFL Dubai’s fight card was jam-packed with action, broadcast live on ESPN Unlimited starting at 11:30 a.m. ET. Along with the two championship bouts, fans witnessed a range of impressive fights across multiple weight classes. Notably, in the lightweight division, Archie Colgan earned a unanimous decision victory over Jay-Jay Wilson with scores of 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28.
Other standout performances included Jack Cartwright taking a unanimous decision win in a 140-pound catchweight bout against Caolan Loughran, while Pouya Rahmani impressed with a first-round TKO of Slim Trabelsi at 2:47 of Round 1. Florim Zendeli and Mirafzal Akhtamov also secured hard-fought decision victories in their respective welterweight and lightweight matchups.
Additionally, Takeshi Izumi, Makkasharip Zaynukov, and Jarrah Al-Selawe all showcased their skills with unanimous or split decision wins, contributing to a night full of competitive and entertaining fights.
PFL Dubai: Nurmagomedov vs. Hughes 2 delivered on its promise, blending the excitement of high-stakes rematches with a card packed full of skilled martial artists looking to move up in the ranks. Fans following Uncrowned’s live updates got a front-row seat to the thrilling bouts, with expert round-by-round play-by-play enhancing the viewing experience for those tuning in from around the globe.
