Paul Hughes names the former world champion he wants to fight as Usman Nurmagomedov seems to delay PFL rematch
02/21/2025 12:54 PM
Paul Hughes understands that he may need one more fight to secure a rematch with Usman Nurmagomedov – and he wants a former world champion to be the opponent.
The super-confident Irishman pushed unbeaten Bellator champion Nurmagomedov all the way over five rounds in Dubai last month. And in the proceeding few weeks, fans have been clamouring for a rematch between the pair as soon as possible.
Hughes is keen on two things; a Belfast homecoming at the famed SSE Arena and getting that rematch. But he understands he may need to do one before being afforded the opportunity at the other, particularly with his rival insisting he won’t come to Ireland for another fight.
Paul Hughes would face Brent Primus to set up Usman Nurmagomedov rematch
After the loss to Usman Nurmagomedov, Paul Hughes was initially told by his rival that he would need as many as five more wins to earn a rematch. The ostensible reason given was that he had sprinted through to a title fight with just two wins under the PFL and Bellator banners after signing last year.
However, that has since changed and Nurmagomedov is softening his stance. He says Hughes can call him out after one more win, and the Irishman has plotted out who the opponent might be for that very event.
“There’s plenty of options,” he admitted in an exclusive chat with Bloody Elbow, before spilling on who it was he wanted to fight. “There is one name that I think is the best in terms of storyline for building a rematch and that is Brent Primus.
“Former champion, Usman could not finish him, they had a close enough fight. That I think would be a perfect fight for me in Belfast because I know I’d finish him, then we’d have that common opponent and it sets up an even bigger rematch.
Paul Hughes insists on Belfast for next PFL outing
The former Cage Warriors champion has been beating the drum for a Belfast homecoming in his entire tenure. And after coming within touching distance of winning the belt from one of the sport’s top prospects, he is now insisting upon a return to the SSE Arena.
“It has to be in Belfast,” he continued. “I am ready to go, I have zero knocks, zero even bruising after that fight. I had two black eyes and the cut on top of my head and that was it.
“I have had zero indication or chats with the PFL about next steps I’m just putting this out there and putting on pressure and hoping that Belfast is a cert. For all parties it’s the best business so far.
“If you do an event there I’ll sell it out, probably at this point 9,000 people and create another incredible event for PFL, another incredible atmosphere and I guess another career-defining place.”
