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Usman Nurmagomedov pays Paul Hughes ultimate compliment after 'toughest fight'

Photo shows Usman Nurmagomedov being interviewed after his win
-Credit:DAZN


Usman Nurmagomedov says Paul Hughes took him "to another level" after the Bellator champion had to dig deep to see off his Irish challenger in Dubai on Saturday night.

Nurmagomedov claimed a majority decision win over Hughes to defend his Lightweight belt in front of a packed crowd at the Coca-Cola Arena.

The Dagestan fighter overcame a point deduction in the third round to emerge with the win. One judge had it 47-47 while two others scored the contest 48-46 in Nurmagomedov's favour.

READ MORE: 'Heartbroken' Paul Hughes makes Belfast call after Usman Nurmagomedov thriller

READ MORE: Paul Hughes vs Usman Nurmagomedov as it happened in Dubai

Lavey native Hughes excelled on the biggest stage of his career and was left "heartbroken" at the end, admitting he "probably left something in the tank" against the unbeaten Nurmagomedov, who stretched his record to 19-0.

For the champion, it was the toughest test of his career to date.

Nurmagomedov told DAZN: "You are the man, Paul Hughes. You are the man. You're tough.

"I underestimated this guy, which was my little mistake. But I am still undefeated, undisputed lightweight champion. Thank-you so much.

"His wrestling defence and takedown defence was very good. He is tough and strong. I didn't think he would be that strong, but he was really strong.

"I have never taken damage like I did in this fight. I have a lot of pain on my body.

Photo shows Paul Hughes after the fight
Paul Hughes after the fight -Credit:DAZN

"I think I jumped to next level because of him. He made me better than I was before. And for sure he was better too.

"I really respect you brother."

Hughes was crestfallen after the fight, telling DAZN: "It played how I expected. I am so gutted, so disappointed. I really thought I won that one.

"I should have pushed harder. I know we will fight again. I have so much respect for Usman. I thought I won tonight.

"But look, I probably left something in the tank. I need to give everything next time and I will."

He added: "I knew I was on this level. I thought I was good enough to beat Usman. I really thought I was going to win tonight. I am f***ing heartbroken to be honest."

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