Bellator has officially announced a matchup between lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov from Russia and Ireland’s Paul Hughes. The fight is scheduled to take place on January 25 in Dubai.
Nurmagomedov last fought in September 2024 at the Bellator Champions Series in San Diego, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Alexandr Shabliy. His professional record has 18 wins and no losses, with one fight deemed a no contest.
Hughes last competed in the cage in October 2024 at the PFL Super Fights, where he won a split decision against AJ McKee. His record includes 13 wins and one loss.