Usman Nurmagomedov-Paul Hughes is the main attraction for the eagerly awaited PFL Road To Dubai Champions Series, which will be taking place in mere hours. Nurmagomedov, the reigning PFL lightweight champion, has been promoting the event and discussing his strategy. Nurmagomedov was involved in a series of interviews, explaining lessons from the past and his confidence heading into the fight. The Dagestani made it clear as to what he needs to do to prove his superiority in the fight.
Usman Nurmagomedov spoke up about the fight with Red Corner MMA. The PFL lightweight champion’s plan is to finish his opponent and he was quite clear that he is not a man of doubts. When asked about his mindset heading into the fight, he confidently stated:
I will finish this guy tomorrow. The public is not gonna help him. This is our territory, and I’m either taking him all five rounds or finishing him early.”
He added,
For me, it’s not enough to just beat him—I have to finish him because this guy is not on my level.”
The bout had a charged buildup, powered by aggressive statements from each fighter and their camps. Khabib Nurmagomedov made incendiary comments about Dagestani superiority over Ireland, provoking a firestorm of debate that divided MMA fans around the world. Conor McGregor stepped in to add fuel to the fire, and the two went at it on social media.
A rivalry between Dagestan and Ireland added extra spice to the anticipation for the headliner. With national pride and personal stakes at play, the bout was not just a fight but a test of identities.
Usman Nurmagomedov Plans To Join UFC After Islam Makhachev’s Retirement
Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov has revealed plans to join the UFC, as soon as teammate Islam Makhachev calls it a day. The 26-year-old star hopes to make the switch in two years’ time, which would allow him to bypass a title fight against Makhachev.
Nurmagomedov has made his mark in Bellator with victories over Benson Henderson and Alexander Shabliy and believes this timeslot will set him up perfectly for victory. Makhachev’s hints at a potential welterweight move gives Nurmagomedov a road to victory in the UFC and, if Nurmagomedov enters the promotion at 28, he will be in fighting in the promotion up to age 32 at the peak of his career.
Usman Nurmagomedov’s current trajectory in the world of M.M.A. is nothing short of lofty. And the fact that he wants nothing to do with Makhachev combined with his recent performances make his eventual move to UFC one of the most anticipated in Zuffa history. Whether he makes it by the time he turns 28, or sooner, Nurmagomedov’s journey from Bellator to the UFC promises to be one of the most exciting in the sport’s history.