Usman Nurmagomedov’s Irish Rival Calls for Trilogy Bout and Makes Major Accusation Towards Team Khabib

Paul Hughes takes aim at shady EPO restrictions while referencing Team Khabib and calling out Usman Nurmagomedov for a trilogy bout.

Usman Nurmagomedov’s Irish Rival Calls for Trilogy Bout and Makes Major Accusation Towards Team Khabib

Paul Hughes calls out Usman Nurmagomedov for trilogy (via BBC)

Usman Nurmagomedov is now one of MMA’s biggest talking points after his dominant PFL New York performance. The undefeated Dagestani knocked out Archie Colgan in the first round to retain the PFL lightweight title and improve to 22-0. Amid growing UFC speculation, attention has returned to rival Paul Hughes, who has called for a trilogy fight while taking aim at Team Khabib.

Hughes first challenged Nurmagomedov at PFL Champions Series 1 Dubai in January 2025. Nurmagomedov retained the title by majority decision after a closely contested five-round battle. They met again in October 2025, where the Dagestani star earned a unanimous decision to secure the inaugural PFL lightweight title and move 2-0 ahead in the rivalry.

Following Nurmagomedov’s win over Colgan, speculation about a UFC move has continued to grow. However, nothing has been finalized regarding the undefeated champion’s future. Amid those talks, Hughes renewed his trilogy call after revealing that he predicted Nurmagomedov would defeat Colgan and discussing his rival’s potential UFC move.

I knew Usman would win that fight. I called it. Different level than Colgan. Nobody in the UFC would give him problems except certain styles like Ilia Topuria or Max Holloway. I think the whole world is in agreement that I won the first fight. The second one is close. I didn’t train for 6 weeks before that fight. I had back-to-back surgeries. I know 100% I have the ability to beat that man.

Paul Hughes via his Instagram

Hughes has also been outspoken about anti-doping standards throughout his PFL run. He recently criticized the promotion’s testing program after Alexandr Shabliy received a suspension for EPO use. The Irish lightweight called for stricter testing and lifetime bans for fighters caught using performance-enhancing drugs.

Usman trains under Khabib Nurmagomedov and represents the renowned Dagestan-based team. Several fighters associated with Team Khabib have previously faced failed drug tests or suspensions for banned substances. Those cases gave Hughes ammunition as he renewed calls for stricter EPO testing and stronger anti-doping regulations.

Team Khabib didn’t get tested. They tested them just one day before the fight. They had like a 6-month suspension. They should be banned for life for using PEDs.

Paul Hughes via Instagram

Hughes also referenced Movlid Khaybulaev while discussing PFL anti-doping concerns. The Dagestani featherweight was stripped of his 2025 PFL title after testing positive for recombinant EPO and received a one-year suspension. The case added another high-profile anti-doping incident involving a Team Khabib fighter.

Usman himself served a six-month suspension in 2023 after testing positive for a banned substance. The result of his Bellator title defense remained unchanged despite the disciplinary action. Hughes’ latest comments have brought that episode back into focus amid his ongoing rivalry with the PFL lightweight champion.

Usman Nurmagomedov’s future remains uncertain following PFL New York. The champion has indicated that the best financial opportunity could influence his next move. If he leaves the promotion, Paul Hughes could be left without a trilogy opportunity, though a successful run may allow him to follow.

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Controversial manager clears the air around Usman Nurmagomedov’s free agency

Usman Nurmagomedov’s potential UFC arrival has been a major talking point for years. Islam Makhachev holding the lightweight title was the biggest obstacle due to their connection as teammates. However, Makhachev’s move to welterweight after UFC 322 has opened a path for Nurmagomedov.

UFC CEO Dana White has consistently held Usman in high regard throughout his career. At the UFC Belgrade press conference, White was asked about potentially signing another undefeated Dagestani star. The UFC head honcho did not provide a concrete answer but showed optimism about the possibility.

Usman Nurmagomedov
Usman Nurmagomedov (via MMA Fighting)

Usman’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has now confirmed that he will explore all options after the champion’s contract situation. Abdelaziz stated he would first speak with the PFL out of loyalty but will consider other opportunities. He added that the promotion has done an excellent job developing Usman throughout his career.

In the next 90 days, they have an exclusive negotiation. After that, I’m going to talk to other people, and we’ll figure it out. It’s always good business with these guys. But in a way, we have friendly relationship. They can tell me go ahead and talk to other people to cut the time off. And I’ll talk to other people, but everything is on the up and up. I don’t hide things from people.

Ali Abdelaziz via MMA Junkie

If the deal with UFC materializes, Usman Nurmagomedov would become the latest Team Khabib fighter to join the promotion’s roster. His brother Umar Nurmagomedov has already made a major impact in the bantamweight division. Meanwhile, teammate Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaynukov recently secured a successful UFC Abu Dhabi debut, strengthening Dagestan’s presence.

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