Russian standout, Usman Nurmagomedov remains the undisputed Bellator MMA lightweight titleholder tonight following his headliner at PFL Road to Dubai against Irish challenger, Paul Hughes — surviving some massive adversity to land a majority decision victory.
Nurmagomedov, who entered tonight’s grudge fight with surging Derry striker, Hughes — had previously racked up a series of consecutive title defense wins over Benson Henderson, and Alexander Shabily prior to tonight’s pairing in Dubai.
And taking a victory in the opening round in a tightly-contested back-and-forth in the opening five minutes, Nurmagomedov would be deducted a point in the third round after landing a third illegal groin strike on former Cage Warriors featherweight kingpin, Hughes.