Usman Nurmagomedov is gearing up to reclaim his top form ahead of a highly anticipated rematch against Paul Hughes for the PFL lightweight world title at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai this Friday. The Dagestani fighter is determined to display a sharper, more focused version of himself after a tough initial battle with the Irish challenger.
Their first encounter, held in January during the inaugural PFL Champion Series – Road to Dubai, saw Nurmagomedov narrowly secure victory via a majority decision, pushing his undefeated record to 19-0. Despite the win, Nurmagomedov admitted the fight was a close call, underscoring the need for improvement. “After that fight we changed a lot of things and this time I made it focus on my wrestling, and I have improved my skills and all that,” he shared at the Dubai media day, emphasizing a more refined strategy centered on his wrestling prowess.
Interestingly, Nurmagomedov also revealed that he was not in peak physical condition during their first bout, yet still emerged victorious. “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,” he said confidently, signaling his readiness to dominate. His training camp has been rigorous and comprehensive, targeting both physical conditioning and mental preparation to ensure peak performance.
With the rematch looming, Nurmagomedov is prepared for a full five-round contest but remains open to an early finish if the opportunity arises. “I’m preparing always for five rounds, you know, condition, everything, mentally. But if I will find some opportunity for finish this fight, of course, I will finish it,” he commented. He acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the fight, stating, “It can finish in the first round or in the fifth, nobody can predict the outcome.”
Though Nurmagomedov has previously suggested Hughes isn’t quite on his level, he nonetheless respects his opponent’s skills and mental toughness. “He doesn’t have any weaknesses. He’s a great fighter. He’s got a strong mentality. He feels he can win. And the same I can say about me. We’re ready to show the people one more time same thing,” Nurmagomedov remarked, maintaining a respectful yet competitive attitude.
Adding an emotional layer to the match, Nurmagomedov noted the strong support he will receive from his family and fans in Dubai. “My father will be by my side. My family members, uncles. Fight nights are like crazy stuff. But I’m ready,” he said, highlighting the personal significance of the fight.
On the other side, Paul Hughes exudes calm confidence born from dedication and experience. “Initially, my confidence came from the work. And still to this day, it comes from the work,” Hughes said, emphasizing his thorough preparation over the past 10 months. Hughes has solid proof of his capabilities, having not only survived but thrived under pressure many times throughout his career.
Hughes is coming off an impressive 42-second knockout victory over Brazilian Bruno Miranda at the packed SSE Arena in Belfast, raising his career record to 14-2. This dominant win adds fuel to his confidence heading into the rematch. “In a way, I have got so much power. I’ve never been so confident,” Hughes declared, underlining his readiness to capitalize on the experience of a prior rematch success in his career.
Speaking on the potential outcome against Nurmagomedov, Hughes acknowledged the unpredictability that makes fight nights so thrilling. “I have the ability to knock him. I also have the ability to just turn around. So, wherever it goes, it goes.” Reflecting on their last fight, he noted the momentum shifts and admitted admiration for Nurmagomedov’s resilience and skill in navigating the fight.
This rematch promises high stakes and intense action as two elite fighters bring refined skills, hard-earned experience, and unyielding determination to the cage in Dubai. Fans can expect a gripping contest between Nurmagomedov, aiming to prove he is at his absolute best, and Hughes, confident and hungry to overturn the previous result. The electric atmosphere at the Coca-Cola Arena is set to host yet another memorable chapter in their burgeoning rivalry.
