Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes set for Jan. 25 PFL event in Dubai
11/20/2024 09:30 AM
Usman Nurmagomedov has his next challenge set.
On Wednesday, the PFL announced that Bellator's undefeated lightweight champion will face Paul Hughes (13-1) at a PFL event on Jan. 25 at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.
Nurmagomedov is undefeated in 19 pro bouts and has successfully defended his Bellator belt twice (a third defense against Brent Primus was overturned to a no-contest when Nurmagomedov later failed a drug test). He is currently the No. 6 lightweight in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings.
Hughes has had a banner 2024 campaign, going 3-0 with wins in Bellator and PFL. He made his league debut this past October, earning a hard-fought split decision over A.J. McKee at the Battle of the Giants event to become just the second fighter to hand McKee a loss.
The Jan. 25 event was announced as part of a multi-year partnership between PFL and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, as well as the Dubai Sports Council. It is scheduled to air live on ESPN+.
