The highly anticipated main event of the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series delivered an unforgettable spectacle as Usman Nurmagomedov edged Paul Hughes in a thrilling 25-minute battle. The pride of Dagestan emerged victorious via majority decision (47-47, 48-46, 48-46), extending his undefeated streak and solidifying his status as the undisputed Bellator Lightweight Champion.

Respect Between Warriors

After the hard-fought contest, Nurmagomedov was quick to praise Hughes, stating, “This is for you guys. Paul Hughes, you are the man, brother—you’re tough. I underestimated this guy. But I’m still undefeated, undisputed Bellator Lightweight Champion.”

Hughes, who displayed incredible resilience and skill, expressed his desire for a rematch, saying, “I thought I won the fight. I probably left some in the tank. Next time, I need to leave everything behind. We have to do the rematch in Belfast; I think I’ve earned this.”

Co-Main Event and Dominant Performances

The co-main event saw former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Vadim Nemkov make quick work of Tim Johnson, securing a first-round submission victory via rear-naked choke at 3:08. Nemkov extended his unbeaten streak to 14 fights.

In the Featherweight bout, Dagestan’s Akhmed Magomedov submitted Ireland’s Nathan Kelly in the second round, improving Dagestan’s record to 2-0 against Ireland on the night.

England’s Ibragim Ibragimov (9-0) continued his rise with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Kenny Mokhonoana. In the Bantamweight opener, Renat Khavalov, cornered by MMA legends Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, cruised to a unanimous decision win in his PFL debut.

Preliminary Card Highlights

The prelims showcased emerging talent, including Ahmed Samy, who secured a TKO win against Tarek Suleiman in the first round, and Haider Khan, who earned a first-round TKO over Mostafa Nada. Rising stars Mirafzal Akhtamov and Hadi Omar Al Hussaini also delivered impressive performances.

The Road Ahead for the PFL in Dubai

The PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series marks the beginning of a groundbreaking partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Sports Council (DSC). The multi-year agreement aims to establish Dubai as a global MMA hub, with future Champions Series events culminating in a grand finale in the city.

Additionally, the initiative provides a pathway for Emirati fighters to compete on the global stage, further developing the sport of MMA in the region.

As the PFL ushers in a new era in Dubai, the Road to Dubai Champions Series promises to bring world-class MMA action to fans and establish the city as a premier destination for combat sports.