Hughes (14-2) was edged out by Nurmagomedov (19-0) in a majority decision loss in the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai headliner this past January. Nurmagomedov wasn't keen on an immediate rematch, wanting Hughes to earn his way back by notching at least a few more wins.

It would’ve been a dream to have this rematch on Irish soil,” admitted Hughes. “I’m confident my first title defence will be in Belfast.” “The support I’ve felt f

PFL star Paul Hughes believes that he had Usman Nurmagomedov beat in their first encounter before a change in momentum late in the fight.