Nurmagomedov defends PFL title in Dubai amid scoring controversy

Usman Nurmagomedov retained the PFL lightweight title with a unanimous decision over Paul Hughes on Friday night at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, defeating the Northern Irish challenger after five closely contested rounds that produced controversy over fouls and the judges' scorecards. The judges ruled in Nurmagomedov's favor 50-45, 49-46 and 48-47, giving the champion another decision victory after their first meeting in January.

The rematch saw both fighters have significant moments. Nurmagomedov secured takedowns across the fight and landed heavy body strikes, while Hughes repeatedly pressed forward and landed telling counters, including moments that visibly wobbed the champion. The bout was interrupted several times by illegal blows and a clash of heads. Hughes absorbed at least two low blows that paused the action, and a late accidental head clash opened a cut above Nurmagomedov's eye. Referee Keith Peterson did not deduct points for the low blows, a decision Hughes later questioned.

Nurmagomedov seized late positional advantages with takedowns in multiple rounds and finished strongly, telling assembled media he believed he had won every round. Hughes acknowledged the loss...