DUBAI: Back in January, PFL lightweight world champion Usman Nurmagomedov and top contender Paul Hughes put on a five-round instant classic that many hailed as a contender for fight of the year.

While Hughes pushed Nurmagomedov to the limit with a star-making performance, the Dagestani champion still left Dubai with the title following a majority decision nod.

For many fans and experts, Hughes’ performance was enough to warrant an immediate rematch. Even then, Hughes needed to earn his way back to a title shot, and he did so in spectacular fashion.

In the main event of this year’s PFL Europe debut in his hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland, “Big News” Hughes starched Bruno Miranda in just 42 seconds to lock in another shot at the undefeated Nurmagomedov and the PFL title.

The two top-tier 155-pounders (70 kg) are slated to run it back at the “PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai - The Rematch” card on Oct. 3 in Dubai. It is being touted as the biggest rematch in PFL history.

As impressive as Hughes has been, the champ believes a title shot has not been earned.

“When a fighter loses a title shot, he must work hard, win many fights, and then deserve a second chance,” Nurmagomedov explained at a recent PFL Media Day in Dubai.

“In my opinion, Paul has not earned this rematch, but it doesn’t matter. For me, I am ready.”

Cousin of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, Usman has been carving out his own stellar career path. The 27-year-old Dagestani is 19-0, with notable victories over Patricky “Pitbull” Freire, Benson Henderson and Alexander Shabliy.

Hughes has been Nurmagomedov’s toughest test, and this time he promises not to take the exciting Irishman for granted.

“I always work very hard, morning and evening, like I have throughout my career. Paul is not on my level, but this time I will not underestimate him. I respect him, and I will do my best.”

While Hughes is the next man up, another challenger is waiting in the wings in the form of 2025 PFL World Tournament Lightweight Champion Alfie Davis.

Davis recently bested the dangerous Russian and former PFL Tournament Champion Gadzhi Rabadandov to claim gold and potentially set up a showdown against the winner of the title bout.

Nurmagomedov said: “Right now my full focus is on Paul Hughes. After this fight, I will face the PFL champion, Alfie, but today my mind is only on Paul.”