Nurmagomedov vs Hughes Prediction
👊 On October 3, the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai (UAE) will host PFL Champions Series 3. The main event features a rematch between the undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov and Ireland's Paul Hughes. They will battle for the lightweight title. Their first encounter took place in January this year and was a closely contested bout. However, Usman managed to secure the victory. Who will come out on top this time? Check out our editorial prediction!
Usman Nurmagomedov Player Overview
Usman Nurmagomedov is 27 years old, boasting an impressive record of 19 wins and no losses, with one bout declared a no-contest. He is the cousin of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov. Usman holds the Bellator Lightweight Championship, a title he claimed in November 2022 after a commanding victory over Patricky Freire. Since then, Usman has successfully defended his belt four times, including a bout against Brent Primus. In September 2024, Nurmagomedov triumphed over Alexander Shabliy, preventing his compatriot from showcasing his full potential and winning the final bout of the Bellator Lightweight Grand Prix. In January, the Dagestani fighter edged out Hughes in a closely contested match.
Match Results: Usman Nurmagomedov
Paul Hughes Player Overview
Paul Hughes is 28 years old, boasting a record of 14 wins and two losses. The Irish fighter, who previously competed in Cage Warriors with seven victories in eight bouts, signed with Bellator in 2024 despite offers from the UFC. In Bellator, he secured a knockout win over Bobby King and a decision victory against AJ McKee. After a defeat to Usman Nurmagomedov, Hughes returned in May 2025 at PFL Europe 1: Belfast, where he knocked out Brazilian Bruno Miranda within the first minute of the opening round.
Match Results: Paul Hughes
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Usman Nurmagomedov
Usman Nurmagomedov on the upcoming rematch:
“I went through a tough camp. My team and friends were there to support me. I'm focused on the rematch. I can't even imagine losing this time. The first fight wasn't what I envisioned or wanted. But the second one will be a whole different story. Now, I'm prepared to give it my all in the cage. That's my mentality. Before this fight, I just want to say one thing: 'Be ready, I'm coming! This will be a completely different Usman. This will be one of the best fighters on the planet.'”
Paul Hughes
Paul Hughes on the upcoming rematch:
"I'll break him down towards the end of the fight. I might finish him off even earlier. You saw my last bout, a knockout in 34 seconds, so I've got a shot. Once I get the win, I'll challenge him to a trilogy. The score will be 1-1, and I need to settle things with this guy once and for all."
⭐ Editorial Prediction
The first fight revealed that Usman underestimated his opponent. Nurmagomedov expected to breeze past the Irishman. However, Hughes surprised with his relentless aggression and stamina. Yet, heading into the rematch, the balance of power remains unchanged. The Russian fighter is still the clear favorite. He is more versatile than his opponent, faster, and more technically skilled. If Usman approaches the rematch with greater seriousness, which we have no doubt he will, his victory should be even more convincing.
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