Nurmagomedov 'didn't want rematch' - Hughes

Hughes Claims Nurmagomedov 'Didn't Want' Rematch Ahead of Dubai Showdown

Dubai, UAE – As the sands of time shift towards October 3rd and the highly anticipated rematch between Paul Hughes and Usman Nurmagomedov in Dubai, a surprising claim has emerged from the Irish fighter himself. Hughes has asserted that his Dagestani opponent was, in fact, the one hesitant to agree to a second encounter, a statement that casts a different light on the build-up to this significant lightweight clash.

The initial bout between Hughes and Nurmagomedov, which took place in December 2021, ended in a controversial split decision victory for Nurmagomedov. Many observers felt Hughes had done enough to earn the win, leading to a strong demand for an immediate rematch. However, the path to a second fight has been anything but straightforward, with various delays and negotiations playing out behind the scenes.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Hughes was candid about his perception of Nurmagomedov's willingness to step back into the cage with him. "Honestly, I think he didn't want it," Hughes stated, his words carrying the weight of someone who has been through the wringer of fight promotion. "I think he knows what I'm about. He knows I'm a tough fight for him."

This assertion directly challenges the narrative that Nurmagomedov has been eagerly pursuing a second chance to definitively prove his superiority over Hughes. While Nurmagomedov has certainly been vocal about his desire to cement his legacy and continue his undefeated streak, Hughes's comments suggest a more nuanced and perhaps even reluctant acceptance of this high-stakes rematch.

The Shadow of the First Fight

The first encounter between the two fighters was a tactical war, a chess match played out with fists and feet. Nurmagomedov, known for his relentless pressure and suffocating grappling, found himself pushed to his limits by Hughes's dynamic striking and resilient defense. The split decision verdict left a bitter taste for many, including Hughes and his team, who felt robbed of a significant victory.

“After the first fight, I felt like I won,” Hughes elaborated. “I felt like I dominated large parts of the fight. So, for me, it was a no-brainer that we needed a rematch. But it wasn’t always straightforward from his side, it felt like.”

The implication here is that the undefeated record Nurmagomedov carries into this rematch might have been a significant factor in his perceived hesitation. Losing that '0' to Hughes would undoubtedly be a blow to his carefully constructed aura of invincibility. Could it be that the pressure of maintaining that perfect record made him less inclined to face a fighter who had already proven to be such a formidable challenge?

“He’s undefeated, and I think he knows that if he loses to me, it’s a big dent to his record,” Hughes continued, offering a glimpse into the psychological warfare that often accompanies high-level mixed martial arts. “He’s got a lot to lose, and I’ve got nothing to lose. I’m just going to go out there and put it all on the line.”

Dubai: A Neutral Ground for a Grudge Match?

The choice of Dubai as the venue for this rematch is also noteworthy. While not explicitly stated as a neutral territory in the traditional sense, it offers a different environment than either fighter’s home turf. For Nurmagomedov, whose family and fighting lineage are deeply rooted in Dagestan, a move to a more international setting might be seen as a way to broaden his appeal and showcase his talents on a global stage. For Hughes, it’s simply another opportunity to prove himself against the best.

The anticipation surrounding this fight is palpable. Nurmagomedov, the cousin of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, has been making waves in the lightweight division, showcasing a blend of striking and grappling that has seen him rise through the ranks. Hughes, a former Cage Warriors champion, has consistently proven himself to be one of the most dangerous contenders outside the major organizations.

The narrative of Nurmagomedov’s supposed reluctance adds an intriguing layer to the pre-fight buildup. It suggests that perhaps Hughes isn't just the underdog seeking redemption, but a fighter who has already gotten under his opponent's skin, forcing him into a second encounter he might have preferred to avoid.

What Lies Ahead?

As fight night approaches, the question remains: will Hughes's words prove to be a strategic mind game, or will they reveal a genuine truth about Nurmagomedov's mindset? The pressure on both fighters is immense. Nurmagomedov aims to silence any doubters and solidify his status as a top lightweight prospect. Hughes, on the other hand, sees this as his golden opportunity to claim a career-defining victory and etch his name in the annals of the sport.

The fight itself promises to be a compelling spectacle. Nurmagomedov's pressure-fighting style against Hughes's more fluid and explosive approach is a classic stylistic matchup. Will Nurmagomedov be able to impose his will and secure a more decisive victory this time around? Or will Hughes’s confidence, fueled by his belief that his opponent didn’t truly want this rematch, translate into a performance that shocks the world?

The stakes are undeniably high for both men. For Nurmagomedov, it’s about defending his undefeated record and silencing any whispers of doubt. For Hughes, it’s about proving that the first fight wasn’t a fluke and that he is indeed the superior fighter. The claim that Nurmagomedov "didn't want" the rematch only adds fuel to an already burning fire, making this October 3rd showdown in Dubai one that fight fans simply cannot afford to miss.