PFL Books Lightweight Title Fight Between Usman Nurmagomedov and Phil Hughes

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has scheduled a rematch between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes for the lightweight championship on October 3 in Dubai. The 155-pound title fight was announced earlier this week. A rematch has been expected since January, when Nurmagomedov defeated Hughes by majority decision. That first bout was also in Dubai. Who will come out on top this time around?

PFL Lightweight Title Rematch Set

Nurmagomedov (19-0), the cousin of retired MMA all-time great Khabib Nurmagomedov, looked impressive as a two-time defending Bellator MMA champion. Hughes (14-2) made it a close fight in the inaugural PFL lightweight title bout. Hughes, 28, said the judges’ scorecards were “pretty ridiculous” and felt that he won. 

Hughes won his last fight in May via first-round knockout against Bruno Miranda. Nurmagomedov hasn’t fought since defeating Hughes. The PFL also announced another bout for the card between light heavyweights Corey Anderson and Dovlet Yagshimuradov. The PFL’s announcement was the same week that three fights were scratched from the UFC 319 card. 

Final Thoughts

The anticipated rematch should be another classic championship battle. Will Nurmagomedov keep the belt, or will Hughes take it? It will be interesting to see what other fights are added to the card for October 3 in Dubai. The UFC 320 event is scheduled for the following day in Las Vegas.