Usman Nurmagomedov was able to defend his Bellator lightweight title this weekend. This was when he defeated Paul Hughes by majority decision.
Fight Recap (Rounds 1 to 3)
The first three rounds were a tactical battle with Usman Nurmagomedov controlling much of the early action through his constant kicking game. He opened up with body and leg kicks, switching stances and keeping Paul Hughes at bay, who remained cautious and didn’t commit much offensively in the opening minutes. As the round progressed, Nurmagomedov’s kick activity was the key to his success, though Hughes did land a few good shots to the body when he closed the distance. A couple of low blows from both fighters interrupted the flow. However, Nurmagomedov was ahead by the end of Round 1 with his consistent offence.
In the 2nd round, Hughes grows into the fight, gaining confidence and beginning to land clean strikes. A well-timed switch kick stunned Nurmagomedov, and Hughes defended a takedown attempt before landing some solid calf kicks. The momentum shifted as Hughes became more aggressive, while Nurmagomedov continued his low-kick-heavy attack but struggled to find his rhythm. A late combination from Nurmagomedov showcased his skill.
In the third round, it started with both men still engaged in a technical exchange, though it became clear that Nurmagomedov’s leg was compromised. Paul Hughes took advantage, landing some clean shots and pressing the action, while Nurmagomedov’s takedowns were stuffed or resulted in scrambles. A point deduction for a low kick from Nurmagomedov added to his struggles. This is while Hughes showed strong takedown defence and landed good body shots in the clinch.
Fight Recap (Championship Rounds)
In the championship rounds, the momentum continued to favour Paul Hughes. Round 4 would be marked by Nurmagomedov looking fatigued, while Paul Hughes remained fresh and aggressive. He landed some clean strikes, including an uppercut, and continued to pressure Nurmagomedov. The round saw a clash of heads, which left both fighters with cuts – Paul Hughes with a forehead wound and Nurmagomedov appearing more dazed. Paul Hughes capitalised on the momentum, landing effective punches and bodywork, while Nurmagomedov struggled to keep up.
The fight then entered the 5th and final round. Paul Hughes came out energised, landing a quick jab and pressing the pace, while Nurmagomedov fought back with his kicks and clinch work. A critical mistake from Paul Hughes, when he lunged from a leaping 1-2, allowed Nurmagomedov to secure the clinch and land some knees. Both men were clearly exhausted but kept pushing forward with both fighters landing solid shots. Nurmagomedov got a takedown but couldn’t hold Paul Hughes down for long, and the round ended with a chaotic exchange. The final bell sounded with both men having landed clean strikes. However, the fight was ultimately left up to the judges. The judges would eventually end up giving the fight in favour of Usman Nurmagomedov (48-46, 48-46, 47-47).
Fighters React To Usman Nurmagomedov’s Victory
While Usman Nurmagomedov may have secured his lightweight title with a majority decision victory. However, he is how fighters have reacted to his victory.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
