Venue & Event Details
Location: Coca‑Cola Arena, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Start Time: Main card begins 7:30 p.m. BST (2:30 p.m. ET / 11:30 a.m. PT); ring walks expected ~9:30 p.m. BST (4:30 p.m. ET)
Broadcast: DAZN (global), ESPN+ (U.S.)
Injury Report
Usman Nurmagomedov: No reported injuries; enters fully fit after a long layoff.
Paul Hughes: Healthy; rebounded from the first fight with a quick KO win in May.
Fighter Matchups
Usman Nurmagomedov (20‑0, 1 NC)
Style: Dagestani wrestling base with elite striking.
Strengths: Distance control, jab, front kicks, chain wrestling.
Recent Form: Defended title against Hughes in January via majority decision despite point deduction for fouls. Wins over Patricio Pitbull, Benson Henderson, and Alexandr Shabily.
Keys to Win: Maintain composure, avoid fouls, use grappling to neutralize Hughes’ boxing.
Paul Hughes (14‑3)
Style: Irish striker with sharp boxing and improving takedown defense.
Strengths: Pressure, combinations, durability.
Recent Form: Stopped Bruno Miranda in 42 seconds in May to earn rematch.
Keys to Win: Push pace, defend takedowns, capitalize on Nurmagomedov’s tendency to foul/lose composure.
Fight History
First Meeting (Jan 2025): Nurmagomedov won by majority decision in Dubai. Fight was marred by low blows and a clash of heads, but Hughes impressed by taking the champion to the limit.
FIGHT ODDS
Usman Nurmagomedov – 300
Paul Hughes + 245
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, October 2, 2025
