Usman Nurmagomedov will defend the Bellator lightweight championship against Paul Hughes at a PFL event Jan. 25 at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The PFL announced Wednesday a multiyear partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Sport Council to bring annual events to the city.
All Bellator Champions Series events "will now be co-branded as 'Road to Dubai,' as each show culminates (in) the finale set in the new fight capital," a press release reads.
Nurmagomedov is seeking his third consecutive title defense since becoming champion in 2022. The 26-year-old Dagestani is coming off a unanimous decision win over Alexander Shabliy in September. Nurmagomedov, a cousin of UFC Hall of Famer Khabib, is undefeated as a pro at 18-0.
Hughes has made a huge splash since signing with the PFL earlier this year. The 27-year-old Irishman upset former Bellator featherweight champion AJ McKee by split decision at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants in October to move to 2-0 in the promotion. Hughes, a top prospect who came over from Cage Warriors, holds a 13-1 career record.
