Rapid Knockout Victory by Paul Hughes at PFL Belfast, Secures World Title Rematch
In a dominating performance, Paul "Big News" Hughes knocked out Bruno Miranda in under a minute during his PFL comeback, sending the SSE Arena in Belfast into a frenzy. With a picture-perfect left hook, Hughes brought Miranda to the canvas, proving why he's one of the best lightweights in the world.
Post-victory, Hughes expressed his desire to claim the PFL lightweight title and potentially revisit Belfast as the champion. He said, "When I'm the champion, after I beat Nurmagomedov... perhaps some leverage might be in my favor, and we'll be able to drag him back here for the trilogy."
Hughes's path to this glorious victory wasn't easy. Plagued by recurring hand injuries, doctors suggested he retire from MMA. Tough as nails, Hughes endured four hand breaks in a year, defying the odds and continuing to chase his dreams. His perseverance paid off when PFL signed him to a lucrative contract in April 2024, outbidding the UFC.
Hughes debuted in the PFL in October last year, securing a gritty split-decision win against fellow lightweights, following a close loss against Usman Nurmagomedov in a world title shot. Despite the defeat, fans rallied behind Hughes, believing he could've won the fight.
Now, with his second loss behind him, Hughes eyes his rematch with Nurmagomedov for the PFL's lightweight strap, with eager anticipation for their clash in September in Dubai.
Before joining the PFL, Hughes had accrued a formidable record, though specific details about his pre-PFL fights are not extensively documented. As of recent events, he holds a professional MMA record of 14-2-0 according to some sources, while others mention a record of 13-2, with 6 knockouts.
Keep your eyes peeled for updates on this exciting title fight, as Hughes lands another punch in his quest for the PFL lightweight championship.
More to Follow...
Enrichment Insights:- Paul Hughes's pre-PFL career record is not widely documented, but according to available sources, he holds a record of 14-2-0 or 13-2, with 6 knockouts.- Hughes's most recent significant fight was against Bruno Miranda at PFL Europe 1, where he secured a first-round knockout. Prior to this, he lost to Usman Nurmagomedov in a close decision, which sparked calls for a rematch.
Perhaps Paul Hughes's further winnings in MMA, specifically against Nurmagomedov, will give him a chance to enter the UFC again, as his record now stands at 14-2-0 or 13-2, with 6 knockouts.
In September, the SSE Arena might once again witness a thrilling event, as Hughes challenges Nurmagomedov for the PFL lightweight title, potentially offering an iconic rematch with a hint of his iconic past wins in MMA.
The PFL's upcoming title fight not only signifies a struggle for the championship but also a chance for Hughes to prove his dominance in MMA, following his recent victory against Bruno Miranda and the loss to Nurmagomedov in MMA.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the MMA supermatch between Hughes and Nurmagomedov, reminiscing the memorable days of their respective MMA careers when Hughes was one of the best lightweights in the world.
