Khabib Nurmagomedov offers to settle Dagestan vs Ireland beef with amazing gesture to Paul Hughes
Amid the ongoing discussions, Dagestani MMA fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov has extended an invitation to Irish MMA prospect Paul Hughes.
Follow Us
Khabib Nurmagomedov invites his cousin's rival, Paul Hughes, to Dagestan (Image via Bellator MMA/BBC)
There has been an ongoing feud between Dagestani and Irish MMA fighters in the current MMA landscape. Dagestani MMA standout Khabib Nurmagomedov primarily sparked this back-and-forth rivalry. However, in a surprising turn of events, the ‘Eagle’ has now offered a peace treaty to Irish MMA talent Paul Hughes.
This follows the highly anticipated fight that took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes. Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was in Usman’s corner, watched as his cousin secured a victory over Hughes by majority decision. After the fight, Khabib took to his social media to extend a friendly gesture towards the Irishman.
Thank you for the fight @paulhughesmma and for the experience, I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want, believe me you will like it and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations
Khabib Nurmagomedov via X (@TeamKhabib)
Interestingly, this situation came as a surprise because Hughes was one of the most vocal critics of Khabib’s recent statements. The former lightweight champion expressed that he did not regard Irish MMA talents as highly as he regarded his Dagestani fighters. This opinion drew a wave of harsh criticism.
Thank you for the fight @paulhughesmma and for the experience, I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want, believe me you will like it and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations ✋
— khabib nurmagomedov (@TeamKhabib) January 26, 2025
In light of this, Hughes mocked Khabib, referencing the notable rivalry between the Eagle and Conor McGregor. Khabib has merely expressed a desire to host Hughes’ family and team in Dagestan someday.
The fighters from Dagestan are known for proudly showcasing their region and warmly welcoming guests. Over the years, the MMA community has seen them invite several prominent fighters to their hometown. However, it remains to be seen if Hughes will accept, considering he is still unhappy about his recent defeat to Usman.
Paul Hughes reflects on his loss against Usman Nurmagomedov at PFL Dubai
The Bellator lightweight championship fight between Paul Hughes and Usman Nurmagomedov generated significant excitement in the MMA community. Since it was announced, the matchup has drawn attention as two of the top prospects from Irish and Dagestani MMA prepare to face off. Additionally, Usman’s Bellator lightweight title and his perfect record are both on the line.
Hughes appeared motivated to prove his worth, as Usman often overlooked his MMA performances. Before the PFL Dubai fight, the Irish fighter was on a seven-fight win streak, which gave him the confidence to believe he could mar Usman’s perfect MMA record. However, the outcome did not turn out as he had hoped, leading him to express his disappointment after the loss.
We all thought I won that one. I think the judges’ scorecards were pretty ridiculous. But, I mean, as I say, I’ll watch it back with a clear mind. I’m just judging from the energy of the arena, everyone surrounding the cage, I thought it was mine. I’m not gonna make excuses though. I should have pushed harder… and I will the next time. I know we will fight again…
Paul Hughes via Instagram (@paulhughesmma)
Hughes emphasized that the judges may have inadequately scored some of the rounds. Notably, Usman received a point deduction during the fight for delivering low blows. Despite this setback, Hughes now appears determined to bounce back and prove his skill. Meanwhile, Usman, the Bellator lightweight champion, acknowledged that he underestimated the Irish MMA prospect.
Stay Updated!
Nilaav Gogoi
(570 Articles Published)