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Usman Nurmagomedov Retains PFL Lightweight Title in Thriller
3 Oct
Summary
- Usman Nurmagomedov defeats Paul Hughes to defend PFL lightweight title
- Corey Anderson wins PFL light-heavyweight title in rematch with Dovlet Yagshimuradov
- Sergio Pettis scores stunning knockout of Magomed Magomedov in bantamweight fight
On October 4th, 2025, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) hosted a blockbuster event in Dubai, headlined by a highly anticipated rematch between reigning lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov and challenger Paul Hughes.
Nurmagomedov, who had previously defeated Hughes by majority decision in January, once again proved his dominance, earning a unanimous decision victory to retain his title. The two fighters engaged in a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with Nurmagomedov showcasing his grappling prowess and Hughes showcasing his improved takedown defense.
In the co-main event, Corey Anderson continued his dominance over Dovlet Yagshimuradov, outpointing the Turkmen fighter to claim the PFL light-heavyweight championship. This was a rematch of their 2021 Bellator clash, which Anderson had also won.
The night's highlight came in the bantamweight division, where Sergio Pettis delivered a stunning knockout of the year contender, stopping Magomed Magomedov with a spinning elbow in the closing stages of the second round. Magomedov had been on his way to winning the fight on the judges' scorecards before Pettis' spectacular finish.