Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes are set to headline a thrilling PFL event tonight, Friday, October 3, 2025, live from the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. This much-anticipated rematch has been building for 10 months and promises to deliver everything fans want in a top-tier lightweight showdown. Their first bout earlier this year ended with Nurmagomedov securing a majority decision victory in a fierce, back-and-forth battle that left many fans debating the outcome.
The initial fight showcased just how evenly matched these two fighters are. Though Nurmagomedov took the win, Hughes gave him a run for his money, pushing “Big News” to his limits. Since that fight, Nurmagomedov has taken a hiatus while Hughes quickly bounced back with an explosive 42-second knockout of Bruno Miranda at PFL Europe 1 this past May. Tonight’s rematch provides Hughes a golden opportunity to avenge his only loss, and for Nurmagomedov, it’s a chance to not only defend his title but also to solidify his status as the premier 155-pound fighter in the division. Expect an intense battle where both men bring their best from the moment the cage door closes.
In the co-main event, former UFC contender and ex-Bellator Light Heavyweight champion Corey Anderson will face off against PFL’s reigning 205-pound champion Dovlet Yagshimuradov. Anderson is looking to capture his first PFL title after a successful transition back to Light Heavyweight. This fight marks a return to form for Anderson, who recently defeated Denis Goltsov via second-round TKO at PFL Cape Town and is riding a three-fight win streak. On the other side, Yagshimuradov is a formidable opponent with a seven-fight winning streak and a chip on his shoulder, eager for revenge after losing to Anderson in the quarterfinals of Bellator’s 2021 Grand Prix. Both fighters will bring a mix of skill and determination to the cage, promising a showdown where experience meets hunger for redemption.
Another exciting bout on the card features Magomed Magomedov against former Bellator Bantamweight champion Sergio Pettis. Both are hungry for consecutive wins to climb closer to a title shot. Magomedov had an impressive promotional debut with a win over Sarvarjon Khamidov and is known for his superior grappling skills, which might pose a significant challenge for Pettis. Pettis, who defeated Raufeon Stots in his own PFL debut just months ago, will look to keep the fight standing and leverage his striking to get the advantage. This fight could be pivotal for the Bantamweight division and the paths these fighters carve toward championship contention.
In a pivotal lightweight clash, undefeated Archie Colgan will put his perfect 12-0 record on the line against the tough and resilient Jay-Jay Wilson. This fight could be the stepping stone for the winner to earn a title shot in the loaded 155-pound division. Colgan’s wrestling prowess will be a key factor, so Wilson’s best chance will be to use his striking and power shots to keep the fight standing. While Wilson is the underdog, his recent form suggests he has the tools to mount an upset. For Colgan, this is more than just another win; it’s about cementing himself as a legitimate title challenger.
Opening the main card is a Bantamweight contest between England’s Jack Cartwright and Ireland’s Caolan Loughran, both rising prospects eager to make a statement in PFL. Loughran, who recently exited the UFC on a high note with a win over Nathan Fletcher, has not tasted back-to-back victories in three years and views this fight as a chance to change that narrative. Cartwright is making his PFL debut after a victory under the Oktagon MMA banner. This fight will be a crucial test for both fighters as they aim to establish themselves on a bigger stage and build momentum for their careers.
Tonight’s PFL Dubai event sets the stage for some of the most compelling matchups of the year, featuring hungry contenders, seasoned veterans, and rising stars all battling for pride, position, and titles. Whether it’s Nurmagomedov and Hughes headlining a rematch, Anderson chasing a championship, or the thrilling undercard fights, fans are in for a night packed with high-stakes, action-packed MMA.
