IRELAND’s Paul Hughes has called for a rematch against Usman Nurmagomedov.
The talented Derry native was on the wrong end of a decision against the Bellator MMA 155lbs champion in Dubai on Saturday night.
‘Big News’ is 13-2 in his MMA career as the scorecard went in favour of the unbeaten Dagestani champion.
But Hughes was incredible over the five rounds as he tested the resolve of the champion, who noticeably slowed over the 25 minutes.
Many fans and media had the fight scored in favour of the Lavey man but the judges called it for the Dagestani fighter.
One judge scored the bout 47-47, and the other two gave it 48-46 to Nurmagomedov.
The fight was the last ever Bellator MMA title match, and now the promotion will surely have to rematch the pair for the inaugural 155 PFL MMA strap after a Fight of the Year contender in the UAE.
And Hughes was adamant he should have been awarded the decision after the thrilling contest.
Speaking with Dan Hardy on DAZN after the fight at the Coca-Cola Arena, the 26 year-old called for a rematch in Belfast.
A heartbroken but determined Hughes said: “It played how I expected. I am so gutted, so disappointed. I really thought I won that one.
“I should have pushed harder. I know we will fight again. I have so much respect for Usman. I thought I won tonight.
“But look, I probably left something in the tank. I need to give everything next time and I will.”
“I knew I was on this level. I thought I was good enough to beat Usman. I really thought I was going to win tonight. I am f***ing heartbroken to be honest.
A rematch should be on the cards following this cracker in Dubai, and Hughes insists it has to happen in Belfast.
He said: “Look at this packed arena tonight. As I have said before, the PFL (Professional Fighters League) believed in me and I believe in them.
“I can’t wait to see what lies in the future. We have to do the rematch in Belfast. It has to be in Belfast. We have to bring it back to Ireland.”
Hughes went on to add in an Instagram statement that he won the fight before questioning the judges’ scorecards.
He added: “Obviously, as always, I’m going to have to watch it back to get a good assessment and a clear-minded assessment, but as we know, we all thought I won that one/
“I think the judges’ scorecards were pretty ridiculous, but as I say, I’ll watch it back with a clear mind.
“I’m just judging from the energy of the arena and everyone surrounding the cage. I thought it was mine.
“I’m not going to make excuses though. I should’ve pushed harder. I should’ve pushed harder and I will the next time. I know we’ll fight again.”
