
Paul Hughes is back for the fight that many fans wanted to see again. On Friday, the Irish lightweight will challenge the unbeaten Usman Nurmagomedov in a rematch that already has people talking. Their first meeting earlier this year was close, dramatic, and maybe even controversial. This time, both men arrive with something to prove.
When and where is Paul Hughes vs Usman Nurmagomedov 2 happening?
The event takes place on 3rd October 2025 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE.
- Main card starts: 4:30 pm BST / 11:30 am ET / 8:30 am PT
- Main event walkouts: around 6:00 pm BST / 1:00 pm ET / 10:00 am PT
How to watch the Hughes vs Nurmagomedov fight live
The fight will stream worldwide on DAZN, available to all subscribers. Plans begin at £14.99 per month in the UK, with similar regional pricing across the globe. Subscribers will gain access to the full card, including both title fights and undercard action.If you missed their first meeting, this is the chance to witness what could be another instant classic. The last time these two shared the cage, it was tagged as an early fight-of-the-year candidate.
Full fight card for PFL Dubai
It’s not just the lightweight title. The card is loaded with big names and some interesting matchups:Main Card
- Usman Nurmagomedov (C) vs Paul Hughes
- Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov (C) vs Corey Anderson
- Magomed Magomedov vs Sergio Pettis
- Archie Colgan vs Jay-Jay Wilson
- Jack Cartwright vs Caolan Loughran
Prelims
- Pouya Rahmani vs Slim Trabelsi
- Omar El Dafrawy vs Florim Zendeli
- Takeshi Izumi vs Vinicius Cenci
- Abael Adjoudj vs Mirafzal Akhtamov
- Makkasharip Zaynukov vs John Mitchell
- Jarrah Al-Selawe vs Gregory Babene
Why this rematch matters for MMA fans
Now the stage is set again, in Dubai, for a second chapter. This is not just another title fight. It is a rematch between a champion who never lost and a challenger who believes the story was not finished. On Friday in Dubai, we will find out who is right. For Hughes it is about revenge and the chance to make history for Irish MMA. For Nurmagomedov, it is about protecting his belt and showing there was no doubt the first time. Meanwhile fans have been in support of both the fighters and have voiced their verdict and predictions all over social media. However, whether or not fans predictions are true is something only time can tell. Till then stay tuned!