By ATTS PFL Champions Series Main Event Preview: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes
The inaugural PFL Champions Series in Dubai is set to kick off with a must-see main event on Saturday, featuring rising stars Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes.
Nurmagomedov, the undefeated Bellator MMA lightweight champion, will put his title on the line for the final time before PFL sunsets the Bellator brand name. Hughes, meanwhile, is a decorated featherweight champion who upset former Bellator champion AJ McKee in his PFL debut.
The matchup has generated plenty of buzz due to Nurmagomedov’s family lineage and his cousin Khabib’s involvement in the promotion. Nurmagomedov is the younger brother of UFC bantamweight contender Umar and the cousin of current UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Hughes, on the other hand, has quickly made a name for himself in PFL with his impressive performances. Despite Nurmagomedov’s status as a heavy favorite, Hughes remains confident in his abilities.
Nurmagomedov’s Confidence and Hughes’ Determination
Nurmagomedov is known for his technical prowess and grappling skills, which have earned him dominant wins throughout his professional career. However, Hughes believes he can bring something different to the table that Nurmagomedov has never seen before.
“I don’t think Usman has been in the position of a high-pressure fight before,” Hughes said. “I don’t think that any of his fights have had this level of hype and magnitude. I think with the crowd that I am bringing with me to Dubai here, he has never dealt with and that’s going to change things.”
Hughes credits his experience in Cage Warriors and his upset victory over McKee as preparation for Saturday’s fight. He believes he can use his wrestling and top game to control Nurmagomedov on the ground.
Potential for an Upset?
Despite the odds being heavily stacked against him, Hughes has the potential to pull off an upset. He is a tough and determined fighter with a solid game plan. If he can implement his strategies effectively and withstand Nurmagomedov’s pressure, he could surprise the MMA world.
Prediction and Expert Pick
While Hughes has the talent and motivation to challenge Nurmagomedov, it is likely that Nurmagomedov’s experience and grappling skills will prevail. Nurmagomedov is a well-rounded fighter who has faced and defeated top-level competition. He is expected to claim a hard-earned decision victory, but Hughes should put up a valiant effort and gain valuable experience in the process.
Undercard Fights to Watch
In addition to the main event, the PFL Champions Series undercard features several intriguing fights:
– Former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov takes on veteran Tim Johnson at heavyweight.- Akhmed Magomedov faces Nathan Kelly in a featherweight bout.- Ibragim Ibragimov meets Haider Khan in another featherweight matchup.- Renat Khavalov squares off against Cleiver Fernandes in a bantamweight contest.