Khabib Nurmagomedov holds a strikingly different perspective on the upcoming PFL lightweight title rematch this Friday night compared to his world champion cousin, Usman.
Following his victory in their January bout, Usman Nurmagomedov stated that Paul Hughes would need several more wins (four or five, specifically) to earn another shot at his championship. However, after just one subsequent fight — a 42-second knockout of Bruno Miranda — the two are set to face off again at the Coca-Cola Arena.
While the rivalry between Hughes and Nurmagomedov echoes some minor aspects of Khabib’s historic feud with Conor McGregor, their stories diverge significantly, making them almost incomparable. Consequently, this rematch carries a considerably less hostile tone.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Lauds Paul Hughes as `New Generation of MMA,` Endorsing PFL Title Rematch
Although Usman feels other challengers should have been considered for his next fight, the broader mixed martial arts community generally agrees that a rematch with Hughes is warranted after their five-round war. Even Khabib Nurmagomedov, Usman’s coach and cousin, shares this sentiment.
“I believe this will be a massive rematch,” stated the former UFC champion in an official promotional video for the fight. “The initial bout was tough because of Paul Hughes. In my view, Usman won 4-1 in rounds, but it was far from an easy fight.”
“This man is incredibly persistent; Usman understands he must be prepared because Hughes will relentlessly attack. If you don’t finish him, he’ll keep coming.”
“Paul Hughes represents the new wave of MMA, and Usman is training exceptionally hard. Paul deserves this rematch because Usman truly had a difficult fight against him.”
Usman Nurmagomedov Differs from Renowned Cousin Khabib
Despite Khabib’s high praise, Usman Nurmagomedov maintains that Hughes’ resume wasn`t strong enough to merit a title shot initially. He also believes that after failing to capitalize on a point deduction in their first encounter, Hughes does not warrant a rematch.
Speaking to reporters before the fight, Usman clarified: “Khabib has his opinion, and I have mine. Sometimes our opinions don’t align. In my judgment, he still doesn’t deserve it.”
“But ultimately, who cares about that? No one. We’re fighting on Friday. Everything is good, training camp went well, Alhamdulillah (praise be to God). After a tough day of cutting weight, that’s it – we’ll fight, Inshallah (God willing).”
