Paul Hughes vs Usman Nurmagomedov rematch: ‘Biggest fight PFL have ever put on’, says Dan Hardy

The first fight had some close rounds which could have gone either way, with the pair engaging in a number of exciting striking exchanges.

There were also three stoppages in the bout – two for accidental groin shots, which Nurmagomedov was deducted a point for, and one for a clash of heads which split Hughes’ forehead open.

Hardy said Hughes will need to be busier if he wants to be victorious in the rematch.

“I think Hughes’ volume will increase, he lost on volume in the rounds he lost,” added the 43-year-old.

“Even though Usman’s kicks weren’t as impactful, it’s racking up points on the scorecard and a smart team around Paul, which I know he has, will be thinking we have to do more on the scorecards this time around.”

Nurmagomedov’s team includes former UFC lightweight champion and cousin Khabib, who retired having won all 29 of his fights, and ex-UFC lightweight title holder Islam Makhachev.

The team have built success around world-class grappling, but Hughes was able to nullify much of Nurmagomedov’s takedown threat in their first fight.