Paul Hughes gives four-word reaction to Dagestani legend Khabib Nurmagomedov dismissing Irish MMA ahead of cousin's fight

Paul Hughes has responded after former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov disregarded Irish MMA.

Khabib's cousin Usman Nurmagomedov is all set to lock horns against Hughes and defend his Bellator lightweight strap on Jan. 25 in Dubai.

'The Eagle,' who has disdain for Irish fighters and will be in Usman’s corner later this month, has now expressed his opinion about the upcoming fight.

In an interview with PFL, the UFC Hall of Famer said:

"Ireland don’t have fighters, brother. Let’s be honest. How many fighters from Ireland? Paul Hughes and Conor and who else? There is no fighters, brother. You come to Dagestan, you can understand. So many organizations, they don’t even want to sign Dagestan fighters because they worry about like, everybody can become champion.”

He continued:

"Let’s be honest. Dagestan level of MMA here. But Ireland level, not even half of Dagestan level.”

Hughes, who is eager to prove Khabib wrong, responded to his comments and stated:

"Just wait and see"

Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov's comments in the clips attached below and Paul Hughes's reply to the same:

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Paul Hughes warns Khabib Nurmagomedov

Over time, the seeds of hatred between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor were planted, and he began to despise Irish fighters. In 2018, Nurmagomedov defeated McGregor, and their rivalry was heightened by the altercation that followed the bout.

Nurmagomedov slapped Artem Lobov, McGregor's training partner and best friend on April 3, 2018. Two days later, 'The Notorious' and his crew attacked a bus carrying Nurmagomedov, his manager, and other crew members after the conclusion of UFC 223 media day.

However, 'The Eagle's' recent comments prompted a response from Paul Hughes once more, who warned him on his Instagram story and stated:

“Just wait until I get my hands on your boy @khabib_nurmagomedov."

Paul Hughes warns Khabib Nurmagomedov (Image courtesy @paulhughesmma on Instagram)