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DUBAI, UAE – August 13, 2025 – The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has confirmed a blockbuster championship double-header for its highly anticipated return to the UAE, as PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai – The Rematch takes place Friday, October 3, live from Coca-Cola Arena.
Headlining the event will be the biggest rematch in PFL history, with Dagestan’s undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov (19-0, 1 NC) defending his PFL Lightweight World Title against Ireland’s Paul Hughes (14-2). Their first encounter in January at the same venue produced an instant Fight of the Year contender, selling out the arena and igniting intense debate over the decision. This time, both men are determined to leave no doubt.
Fueled by his narrow loss, Hughes returned with a statement victory in May, stopping Bruno Miranda in just 42 seconds before calling out the champion: “Usman Nurmagomedov! You can run and delay this rematch as long as you want, but your day is coming.” Meanwhile, Nurmagomedov remains unbeaten and is considered one of MMA’s most complete fighters, boasting wins over former champions Patricky Pitbull and Benson Henderson.
The co-main event will see former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Corey Anderson (19-6) meet reigning PFL Light Heavyweight Champion Dovlet Yagshimuradov (25-7-1) in a rematch of their 2021 Bellator World Grand Prix Quarterfinal. Anderson won that bout via third-round TKO, but Yagshimuradov has since racked up a dominant seven-fight win streak, capped by his 2024 PFL title victory over Impa Kasanganay.
The early card will also feature a trio of intriguing matchups:
An undefeated Heavyweight clash between Iranian wrestling standout Pouya Rahmani (4-0) and Tunisian Olympic wrestler Slim Trabelsi (8-0).
A long-awaited grudge match nearly seven years in the making as Zubaira Tukhugov (20-6-1) faces Artem Lobov (14-15-1), finally settling unfinished business from their scrapped UFC 229 bout.
A regional champion showdown with 2024 PFL MENA Welterweight Champion Omar El Dafrawy (14-5) meeting 2024 PFL Europe Welterweight Champion Florim Zendeli (10-1-1).
“This is more than just a fight card, it’s a global showcase of elite talent, compelling narratives, and the power of our international platform,” said PFL CEO John Martin. “Dubai is quickly becoming one of the sport’s true capitals, and there’s no better setting for a night of championship-level drama and the biggest rematch in PFL history.”
Fans can register now for pre-sale tickets beginning Thursday, August 14 at 4:00 pm GST, with general sales starting Friday, August 15 at 12:00 pm GST via www.coca-cola-arena.com.
PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai – The RematchFriday, October 3 | Coca-Cola Arena | Dubai, UAE
Main Card:
PFL Lightweight World Title Main Event: Usman Nurmagomedov (19-0, 1 NC) vs. Paul Hughes (14-2)
PFL Light Heavyweight World Title Co-Main Event: Corey Anderson (19-6) vs. Dovlet Yagshimuradov (25-7-1)
Early Card:
Heavyweight: Pouya Rahmani (4-0) vs. Slim Trabelsi (8-0)
Catchweight (165 lbs): Zubaira Tukhugov (20-6-1) vs. Artem Lobov (14-15-1)
Welterweight: Omar El Dafrawy (14-5) vs. Florim Zendeli (10-1-1)
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.
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