Paul Hughes accepts Khabib Nurmagomedov offer on one condition
Paul Hughes appears to have an unlikely new fan in the shape of former UFC superstar Khabib Nurmagomedov. The pair have been exchanging social media pleasantries following Saturday's epic clash between Hughes and Khabib's cousin Usman Nurmagomedov.
Thousands of fans packed into the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai to watch the Bellator Lightweight World title fight, with Usman claiming a contentious majority decision over his Irish opponent.
Lavey man Hughes was distraught when the result was read out, after putting in the performance of his career against unbeaten Dagestani Nurmagomedov.
READ MORE: 'Heartbroken' Paul Hughes makes Belfast call after Usman Nurmagomedov thriller
READ MORE: Paul Hughes vs Usman Nurmagomedov as it happened in Dubai
There was plenty of controversy surrounding the decision. Two judges gave it to Nurmagomedov 48-46, while the third scored it a 47-47 draw.
And the close nature of the fight has led to immediate calls for a rematch.
Hughes says 'Part Two' has to happen, and insists it should be held in Belfast. Nurmagomedov believes Hughes has to win "four or five" fights in the interim before earning a second chance.
If anything, Saturday's five brutal rounds certainly drew the fighters closer in terms of respect. And Usman's legendary cousin and former UFC champion Khabib was also quick to heap praise on Hughes.
And he even extended an invite to the Derry man to visit Dagestan.
He said on social media: “Thank you for the fight, Paul Hughes, and for the experience, I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want, believe me you will like it, and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations.”
Hughes replied, saying he would be more than delighted to visit - but on one condition.
'Big News' said: “Thank you, Khabib. I have great respect for you, your team and your nation. I would be honoured to take you up on this offer someday and then return the favour in Ireland… But please, only after I get to rematch Usman.”
Meanwhile, Usman has played down hopes of any quick rematch, and of it happening in Belfast.
He told Bloody Elbow: “For rematch? He has to win a couple, like maybe three, four or five in Bellator because he had only two fights and they gave him a title shot – but Paul Hughes, all my respect to this guy.
“I think if he will go to the tournament for $500,000, he 100% has a chance to take this belt and then we can talk about a rematch.”
When asked if he'd fight Hughes in Belfast, Usman replied: “No, brother. I want to take my time and will enjoy.”
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