"100% a draw at worst", "Sack your judges" - Outrage erupts as Usman Nurmagomedov retains belt in close decision win over Paul Hughes at PFL Dubai

MMA fans worldwide are furious by the judges' decision to award Usman Nurmagomedov a decision victory over Paul Hughes at PFL Dubai. Some supported Hughes, while others claimed that it was a close fight, but Nurmagomedov deserved to win.

Hughes challenged Nurmagomedov for the lightweight title this past weekend at PFL's Road to Dubai Champions Series at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. The Russian entered the fight with an unanimous decision win over Alexander Shabliy at Bellator Champions Series San Diego last year. Meanwhile, in his most recent MMA outing at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants, Hughes defeated AJ McKee via split decision.

The contest was interesting throughout, with Nurmagomedov demonstrating his striking skills early on. That didn't appear to bother Hughes much, who continued to apply pressure on the Dagestani. The Irishman injured Nurmagomedov during the championship rounds, and their fight was called off due to a head clash, leaving Hughes with a severe cut.

However, the 26-year-old made a strong case for himself after demonstrating his wrestling abilities by successfully attempting takedowns at the end of the fight. Following 25 minutes of intense action, Nurmagomedov was declared winner by majority decision (47-47, 48-46, 48-46).

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Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.

One fan wrote:

''Sack your judges were they even watching the fight, fair play to @TeamKhabib for his words at the end towards the Irish people''

Another fan stated:

''100% a draw at worst. Like I said it's one of the worst decisions I've ever seen. This is because there isnt a possible way you can give Usman four rounds in that fight.''

Other fans wrote:

''It was a close fight..rematch needed''

''Definitely not robbed, a close and fantastic fight, but Usman deserved to win''

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Fan reactions [Screenshots courtesy: @SpinninBackfist and @PFLMMA on X]