"I will take care of my people” - Usman Nurmagomedov looks to shut down Dagestan vs. Ireland rivalry in chilling message ahead of Paul Hughes bout

Usman Nurmagomedov means business ahead of his lightweight title fight against Paul Hughes in the main event of PFL Dubai on Jan. 25. With Hughes hailing from Ireland, the comparisons to Khabib Nurmagomedov's infamous rivalry with Conor McGregor have served as the backdrop for the upcoming PFL bout.

Comments made by 'The Eagle' about the lack of quality fighters that come out of Ireland has only served to make the debate between Dagestan and 'The Emerald Isle' more prevalent.

The Bellator MMA lightweight champion is hoping to put the rivalry between the two nations to bed once and for all when he faces off against 'Big News'. Nurmagomedov was captured sharing a calm and composed preview of his plans for fight night while talking to Will Harris, who runs the Anatomy of a Fighter YouTube channel.

The 26-year-old said this:

"Brother, now all these Irish fans, they will be quiet. You know why? Because I said to my people, if they do something, smash these guys. This is our territory. I will take care of my people, you understand? About their [fighter], Paul, tomorrow night same thing. Nothing changes."

Check out Usman Nurmagomedov's comments below (9:00):

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Usman Nurmagomedov reflects on his brother, Umar, losing to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 311

Usman Nurmagomedov's older brother, Umar, faced off against Merab Dvalishvili in the co-main event of UFC 311 on Jan. 18. 'Young Eagle' entered the bout undefeated and was even marked as the favorite on the betting odds, an uncommon occurrence for a title fight.

However, 'The Machine' proved why he currently holds the 135-pound title as he handed Nurmagomedov his first-ever defeat as a professional. Dvalishvili seemed to get stronger throughout the fight, a stark contrast to his opponent, who started well before wilting through rounds 3, 4, and 5.

The Dagestani's younger brother could not attend UFC 311 due to his PFL Dubai clash against Paul Hughes. Following Umar's defeat, the Bellator MMA lightweight champion was interviewed by talkSPORT MMA.

He was asked to reflect on the defeat of 'Young Eagle' and said this:

"It was [a] tough time, a hard time for me. But we agree with what happens with us, doesn't matter, good stuff or bad stuff. Alhamdulillah. It [didn't] make me weak, it just made me more mentally strong. I have to win my fight."

Check out Usman Nurmagomedov's comments below (1:35):