Dubai is set to host one of the most anticipated MMA clashes of the year as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) confirmed that Dagestani star Usman Nurmagomedov will face Irish contender Paul Hughes in a title rematch on October 3 at Coca-Cola Arena.
The bout is part of the ‘Road to Dubai’ Champions Series, organised by PFL in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) and the Department of Economy and Tourism.
At a press conference in Dubai on Wednesday, Hughes said he was arriving in peak form after an intensive training camp.
“I’ve put in a tremendous amount of work preparing for this moment, and I feel at my absolute best to win and deliver a performance worthy of my ambitions and the trust of my team and fans,” Hughes said. “If I win the belt, Usman has every right to request a rematch, and I would have no problem facing him again if that’s what’s needed.”
Nurmagomedov, known for his dominance inside the cage, was quick to respond.
“I don’t think my opponent deserves another shot, but I wouldn’t mind a fourth fight for the belt. We’ll let the action inside the cage decide the outcome,” he said.
The event will also mark the long-awaited return of Pouya Rahmani, a popular fighter making his comeback after an extended injury layoff.
“Coming back after an injury is never easy, but I’ve worked hard and prepared thoroughly for this fight, which represents an important turning point in my career,” Rahmani said.
Highlighting Dubai’s growing stature as a global sports hub, Eisa Sharif Al Marzouqi, Director of Sports Events at the DSC, said hosting the championship underscores the emirate’s vision to position itself as a leading destination for international sporting events.
“The significance of this championship goes beyond competition; it enhances Dubai’s presence on the international sports stage and showcases its outstanding organisational capabilities,” Al Marzouqi said.
“Events like this provide an inspiring platform for sports fans to witness elite MMA fighters up close while giving local and regional talent valuable opportunities to compete at a world-class level, a key driver for the sport’s growth in the region.”
The ‘Road to Dubai’ Champions Series is expected to attract MMA fans from across the region, adding another milestone to Dubai’s roster of world-class sporting events.
