Usman Nurmagomedov believes Dagestani MMA fighters are on a different level compared to Irish fighters, as he prepares to defend his title against Irish contender Paul Hughes, while aiming to maintain his undefeated record and live up to high expectations set by his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Usman Nurmagomedov isn’t looking to ignite a feud with Ireland, but he can’t help but notice a stark contrast between fighters from there and his native Dagestan. A verbal skirmish erupted when Khabib Nurmagomedov stated, “Ireland don’t have fighters… Dagestan level of MMA [up] here but Ireland level? Not even half of Dagestan level.” Despite Irish athletes disagreeing, Usman feels his coach and cousin’s point is indisputable.
“We don’t have some beef with Ireland people,” Usman remarked to MMA Fighting. “But if we talk about MMA fighters from Ireland and from Dagestan, this is a different level.” The evidence? Just look at the champions Dagestan has produced in major promotions compared to Ireland.
However, Usman’s not losing sleep over an Irish rivalry. His focus is singular: Paul Hughes. On January 25, Usman defends his title against Hughes in the PFL Champion Series main event in Dubai. Another notch on his belt? He hopes so.
Hughes earned his shot after just two PFL fights, including a win over former Bellator featherweight champ A.J. McKee. But Usman’s puzzled by Hughes’ rapid ascent. “I don’t know why these guys give him a title shot after two fights,” he mused. “He has only two fights in 155 pounds.”
To Usman, Hughes is just another name trying to make it big by challenging him. “Honestly, Paul Hughes don’t have a name in MMA,” Usman said bluntly. “Who knows Paul Hughes?” He likened it to Alexandr Shabliy’s attempt to use his name for promotion.
Usman defeated Shabliy decisively and plans an even more dominant performance against Hughes. He wasn’t impressed by Hughes’ split decision win over McKee and doubts Hughes would fare well against Shabliy.
“If Alexandr Shabliy would face Paul Hughes, Alexandr will finish him in the first round,” Usman claimed confidently. With a victory, Usman could move to 19-0 with one no contest, solidifying his status as one of the top lightweights in MMA.
At 26, Usman’s already built an impressive resume. His coach believes he could surpass all records in the sport. “Very, very easy he can put his name in the top five greatest fighters of all-time,” Khabib Nurmagomedov said of his cousin.
Such praise might intimidate others, but for Usman, it’s motivation. “For me, it means I have to work more than I train right now,” he said. With ambition and faith, he’s determined to become one of the best fighters ever—Inshallah.
“Thank Allah, it’s going to be my motivation and that’s why I will become the greatest fighter,” he concluded with resolve.