MMA Match Preview: Usman Nurmagomedov (20-0, 1 NC) vs. Paul Hughes (14-3) (Title Fight)

Venue & Event Details

Location: Coca‑Cola Arena, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Start Time: Main card begins 7:30 p.m. BST (2:30 p.m. ET / 11:30 a.m. PT); ring walks expected ~9:30 p.m. BST (4:30 p.m. ET)

Broadcast: DAZN (global), ESPN+ (U.S.)

Injury Report

Usman Nurmagomedov: No reported injuries; enters fully fit after a long layoff.

Paul Hughes: Healthy; rebounded from the first fight with a quick KO win in May.

Fighter Matchups

Usman Nurmagomedov (20‑0, 1 NC)

Style: Dagestani wrestling base with elite striking.

Strengths: Distance control, jab, front kicks, chain wrestling.

Recent Form: Defended title against Hughes in January via majority decision despite point deduction for fouls. Wins over Patricio Pitbull, Benson Henderson, and Alexandr Shabily.

Keys to Win: Maintain composure, avoid fouls, use grappling to neutralize Hughes’ boxing.

Paul Hughes (14‑3)

Style: Irish striker with sharp boxing and improving takedown defense.

Strengths: Pressure, combinations, durability.

Recent Form: Stopped Bruno Miranda in 42 seconds in May to earn rematch.

Keys to Win: Push pace, defend takedowns, capitalize on Nurmagomedov’s tendency to foul/lose composure.

Fight History

First Meeting (Jan 2025): Nurmagomedov won by majority decision in Dubai. Fight was marred by low blows and a clash of heads, but Hughes impressed by taking the champion to the limit.

FIGHT ODDS

Usman Nurmagomedov               – 300

Paul Hughes                                       + 245

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, October 2, 2025