Islam Makhachev reacts to Usman Nurmagomedov’s narrow victory over Paul Hughes at PFL Dubai

Islam Makhachev was part of an all-star corner team for Usman Nurmagomedov's title fight against Paul Hughes at PFL Dubai on Jan. 25. Makhachev was joined by Khabib Nurmagomedov and Javier Mendez, a triple-threat that holds a combat sports pedigree that is almost unrivaled.

The Bellator MMA lightweight champion was a heavy favorite entering his clash with Hughes. Nurmagomedov was confident that 'Big News' was not the same caliber of fighter as he was, and had aspirations of proving just that.

But the Irish title challenger instead proved to fans and pundits across the world that he was more than ready and deserving of a chance to face the Dagestani. The pair went to war for all five rounds, as Nurmagomedov maintained his undefeated record by securing a majority decision win.

Following the event, Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion and pound-for-pound best fighter in MMA, took to Instagram to share his reaction to the result. He said this:

"It was amazing fight. And crazy experience."

Check out Islam Makhachev's statement following PFL Dubai below:

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Islam Makhachev could face the winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Dan Hooker

UFC 313 will see Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker go to war in a five-round co-main event slot in what has been labeled by the Kiwi as a lightweight title eliminator. Islam Makhachev recently defended his 155-pound crown against Renato Moicano at UFC 311.

Makhachev was set to face Arman Tsarukyan, who suffered a back injury the day before weigh-ins and was forced to withdraw from the bout. Moicano replaced him, but suffered a first-round submission defeat.

The Dagestani fighter made history as the first champion to defend the lightweight title four times. Hooker believes that Makhachev will have a chance to make that five title defenses against either him or Gaethje.

'The Hangman' was recently interviewed by Sky Sports NZ after his bout with 'The Highlight' was announced. Hooker said the following:

"That's kind of what the UFC alluded to. This is some kind of title eliminator. That's the only reason the UFC will make something a five-round fight, it's to eliminate you for a title. Get your hand raised in this fight, I know things at the top of the lightweight division are pretty messy, especially after Arman pulling out."

He added:

"There's a lot going up in the air, but that's the beauty of having two titles in the weight division. Whether it's the undisputed title or the BMF title, I'm taking this fight very seriously."

Watch Dan Hooker discuss possibly facing Islam Makhachev below (4:30):