The iconic Dagestan vs. Ireland MMA rivalry reignites as Paul Hughes challenges Usman Nurmagomedov for Bellator lightweight gold. Taking place inside Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, the fight sees Khabib Nurmagomedov coaching Usman against the rising Irish star. Fans eagerly anticipate Conor McGregor joining Hughes’ corner, potentially setting up another dramatic chapter in their legendary feud.
Initially, Hughes suggested that he might have Conor McGregor in his corner against Team Khabib. Though his plans changed afterward, it didn’t stop the rising Irishman from using McGregor’s name to mock Khabib Nurmagomedov. Going into the fight, the young Irish fighter plans to put on a show for the fans.
It’s the biggest fight in the promotion. You see what this is bringing attention-wise. This is exactly what I envisioned. I think my performance this Saturday is gonna blow people’s minds.
Paul Hughes via Anatomy of a Fighter
The shift in Hughes’ attitude towards McGregor started after the ‘Mystic Mac’ lost the civil lawsuit. While this could be because of the media and the image of the promotion, Hughes’ loyalty towards McGregor has remained the same. The young Irish fighter has followed McGregor for a very long time, and even got his nickname from the former double champion.
Many fans had doubts about Conor McGregor and Hughes representing the same gym which would mean that they train together. However, that isn’t the case, Hughes trains at the Fight Academy Ireland while McGregor at the SBG Gym. But it’s safe to say that the Bellator contender does take a lot of inspiration from the ‘Notorious’.
Usman Nurmagomedov reflects on Khabib Nurmagomedov being on his corner against Paul Hughes
Team Khabib has been pretty busy this year with multiple title fights starting with UFC 311. Last week, Khabib Nurmagomedov cornered Umar Nurmagomedov against Merab Dvalishvili. Unfortunately, Umar lost the bout via unanimous decision. On the other hand, Islam Makhachev maintained his title reign and picked up a victory for the team.
Usman Nurmagomedov talks about his star-studded corner (via Instagram)All of them have already flown from LA to Dubai to support Usman Nurmagomedov with his weight cut. Having fighters and coaches of this caliber definitely gives an incredible confidence boost. In a recent interview, the Dagestani fighter talked about his team and who would corner him in the fight.
Well first of all, Khabib. God willing, Umar. Javier will definitely be there. If Islam can make it I’d like to have him in my corner too. I think having such a strong corner will put tremendous pressure on my opponent.
Usman Nurmagomedov via PFL
“You have to be inside the fire…that’s why are the best right now” 🦅☝️
▶️Learn more about the Nurmagomedov legacy as Road To Dubai | Episode 3 is now out on the PFL MMA YouTube Channel!
🎥: https://t.co/DrPVlMmbyz#RoadToDubai | Sat Jan 25 | Coca-Cola Arena | Dubai, UAE |… pic.twitter.com/ZNnT1rsmz1
— PFL (@PFLMMA) January 22, 2025
Team Khabib is always known for winning and the last loss has definitely affected the team’s morale. Viral videos have shown how devastated Khabib Nurmagomedov was after the result announcement at UFC 311. However, a win in Dubai will be a great achievement as they finish their months-long training camp.
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