The storied rivalry between Ireland and Dagestan began with the infamous clash between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor in 2018. The tension remains palpable years later, symbolizing a cultural and competitive feud that transcends the octagon. Now, a new chapter unfolds as rising Irish star Paul Hughes steps forward to challenge Team Khabib’s dominance.
Khabib Nurmagomedov recently made headlines with a viral interview criticizing Ireland’s lack of top-level MMA fighters. The former champion claimed that, aside from McGregor and Hughes, no Irish fighters have competed at the elite level. Unsurprisingly, these comments didn’t sit well with the rising Irish star, who wasted no time in firing back.
Conor made you famous.
Paul Hughes via X
Hughes emphasized the legendary McGregor-Nurmagomedov rivalry, headlining UFC 229, which became the highest-selling pay-per-view in MMA history. In their iconic bout, ‘The Eagle’ dismantled McGregor with ease. His immense popularity also comes from his perfect undefeated record, showcasing unparalleled dominance against top-level opponents throughout his career.
Conor made you famous. https://t.co/88ycFRkTCf
— Paul Hughes MMA (@paulhughesmma) January 3, 2025
Give it a rest @AliAbdelaziz00 😴 https://t.co/yZrRvkNiwG
— Paul Hughes MMA (@paulhughesmma) January 3, 2025
The UFC Hall of Famer then responded to Hughes’s comments by doubling down on his claims. Nurmagomedov highlighted how his teammates like Islam Makhachev, Umar, and Usman Nurmagomedov are currently the top fighters in MMA. All this has definitely added a new layer to the upcoming Bellator title fight between Hughes and Usman.Â
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team warns Paul Hughes ahead of the title fightÂ
This new rivalry between Ireland and Dagestan started with Paul Hughes becoming the top challenger for the Bellator lightweight championship. The fighter then famously involved Conor McGregor by asking the ‘Notorious’ to corner him against Team Khabib. McGregor also came forward to show his support which further intensified the showdown.Â
Paul Hughes vs. Usman Nurmagomedov in Abu Dhabi in a few weeks (via X)With the recent online altercation, Hughes has gone all out and also accused Dagestani fighters of using PEDs. It was a direct dig on Usman Nurmagomedov recently failing a drug test and getting a temporary ban. This also forced Khabib Nurmagomedov’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, to pitch in with a stern warning.Â
Enjoy all this attention, young man you earn it January 25. Everything will stop.
Ali Abdelaziz via X
Enjoy all this attention, young man you earn it January 25. Everything will stop.
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) January 3, 2025
The fight between Hughes and Usman Nurmagomedov is scheduled to take place on January 25. It will take place inside Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai and hype around it is massive. Team Khabib has a busy month ahead of them with two fights at UFC 311 before flying to Dubai. It will be interesting to see if Conor McGregor decides to make a surprise appearance to support his fellow Irishman.
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