Get ready for a high-stakes rematch! Irishman Paul Hughes is set to face Usman Nurmagomedov for the PFL lightweight title in Abu Dhabi. This Friday, all eyes will be on the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai as Hughes seeks to avenge his defeat from eight months ago.
Hughes vs. Nurmagomedov 2: A Fight for the Ages
Their first encounter was a closely contested battle, with Nurmagomedov ultimately edging out Hughes on points. Many felt the fight could have gone either way, leaving fans eager for a second showdown. Can Hughes become the first fighter to defeat the undefeated Nurmagomedov, who is only 27 years old?
BBC Sport has gathered predictions from fighters and pundits alike. Let's see what they have to say:
Expert Predictions:
- Carl Frampton (Two-Weight Boxing World Champion): "I think Paul can win this one. I felt he did enough to win the first fight... Paul will be right up for this and should be the favourite because of what happened last time. I'm backing him to become Ireland's latest world champion." Prediction: Hughes
- Alfie Davis (PFL 2025 Lightweight Tournament-Winner): "My prediction is that Hughes is going to get the job done this time. I feel he's been more active than Nurmagomedov of late, and I feel he just wants it more. So I'm going to go with the underdog Paul Hughes by a decision victory." Prediction: Hughes
- Savannah Marshall (Two-Weight Boxing World Champion): "What an absolute cracker that first fight was. I'm really excited for the second one. I just think everything Paul Hughes had, Usman Nurmagomedov had an answer for. So for this second one... " (Prediction incomplete in source)
Hughes has expressed immense confidence leading up to this fight, stating he's "never been so confident." Will his confidence translate into victory? Tune in to BBC Sport for live coverage starting at 20:00 BST on Friday, 3 October, to witness the action unfold!