Paul Hughes is growing increasingly frustrated with Usman Nurmagomedov, feeling that his potential opponent is continuously altering the terms and conditions for a highly anticipated rematch between the two.
The lightweights previously met in January in a fight widely considered one of the year`s best. Nurmagomedov narrowly emerged victorious via a majority decision, pushed to the brink of his first career loss by Hughes`s performance. Following the bout, there were widespread calls for an immediate rematch, but Nurmagomedov insisted that Hughes first needed to secure another win. Hughes promptly obliged.
In May, Hughes delivered a stunning knockout victory over veteran lightweight Bruno Miranda in just 42 seconds during a homecoming fight in Belfast. This dominant performance seemingly cemented his status as the number one contender. Rather than passively await the PFL`s matchmaking, Hughes took matters into his own hands and reached out directly to Nurmagomedov. However, the response he received was far from satisfactory.
“I now know for a fact that this guy is actively trying to delay this rematch,” Hughes asserted. “That`s because I went straight to the source. I texted him myself last week and simply asked what was going on? Stating `Rematch now`.”
According to Hughes, Nurmagomedov replied by stating, “you have to win one more fight, brother.” Hughes interprets this response, received directly from Nurmagomedov, as clear confirmation that he is attempting to delay their second meeting.
Immediately following their initial fight, Hughes showed respect towards Nurmagomedov and his team, which included UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabib himself spoke highly of the Irish fighter`s efforts and skill in challenging his cousin.
While Hughes has no regrets about that initial respectful interaction, he admits that the developments since – specifically Nurmagomedov`s continued insistence on another win being necessary before the rematch – have significantly heightened his frustration with the entire situation.
“I was completely fed up. I am fed up with all his nonsense,” Hughes declared. “I figured I might as well go directly to him.” Referencing their recent text conversation, he quoted Nurmagomedov: “He said `you`ve got to win one more fight, brother` last week. But at the end of the day, he isn`t the boss here. This fight is going to happen.”
Despite Nurmagomedov`s desire for him to secure another victory, Hughes is confident that his swift and decisive win over Miranda proved his readiness. Although he would have preferred an immediate rematch, the 28-year-old lightweight didn`t hesitate when the PFL presented him with a different fight opportunity, particularly the chance to headline an event in his native Ireland.
Nevertheless, Hughes firmly believes that victory is more than sufficient to warrant what is likely the most highly anticipated rematch in PFL history, regardless of Nurmagomedov`s opinions on the matter.
“This fight absolutely has to take place,” Hughes stated unequivocally. “Everyone wants to see this fight happen. The PFL wants it. Dubai wants it. It is abundantly and clearly evident right now that the only person who doesn`t want this fight is Usman Nurmagomedov.”
“If the fight doesn`t end up happening, you will know exactly why,” he added. “However, I genuinely don`t believe that will be the case. I`m confident it will happen. I think the PFL and the government of Dubai possess greater influence than one individual fighter. Therefore, the fight is essential and will occur in either September or October this year.”
Just days after revealing details of this text exchange with Nurmagomedov, Hughes saw the PFL announce a fight between Mansour Barnaoui and Archie Colgan for June 20. The announcement included a specific clause stating, “the winner of this fight becomes the No. 1 contender for the PFL lightweight world title and will be next in line to face current champion Usman Nurmagomedov.”
It is fair to say this announcement did not receive a positive reaction from Hughes.
“Hey, stop with the rage bait,” Hughes posted on Twitter in response to the PFL`s announcement.
Despite the PFL currently promoting a different fight as the next contender eliminator, Hughes maintains his conviction that the promotion will ultimately deliver the rematch, believing there is little Nurmagomedov can do to prevent it.
“He is clearly trying to delay this fight. It`s absolutely transparent,” Hughes asserted. “Honestly, he probably shouldn`t have bothered texting me back.” He believes Nurmagomedov is attempting to delay the fight for a very specific reason: “That reason is he knows without a doubt I am going to defeat him next time. He experienced my power and intensity in there. He knows I am actively pursuing him. He knows this rematch means everything to me. To be completely honest with you, I`m not certain it means as much to him. But his moment is drawing near. As I stated in my post-fight interview after the first fight, he can attempt to delay this for as long as he desires, but his day will arrive.”
Hughes has consistently felt that he deserved the victory in their initial clash against Nurmagomedov but acknowledged that he was unable to change the judges` scorecards. This perspective is why he didn`t object when the PFL offered him a different fight instead of an immediate rematch.
However, given recent events, Hughes cannot help but question whether Nurmagomedov is simply attempting to postpone the inevitable outcome by creating new obstacles for him to overcome before they finally meet in the cage again.
“Look, that guy is in a difficult situation,” Hughes declared pointedly. “He`s in serious trouble when I finally get my hands on him. Let`s just put it in those terms.” Hughes emphasized his relentless preparation: “I am in the gym training every single day, specifically preparing for this. He has absolutely no conception of what is coming his way.”
Murray Blackwood