“Big News” Paul Hughes has made a significant impact on the global MMA scene since joining PFL and is now set to compete in Belfast.
Usman Nurmagomedov acknowledged Paul Hughes`s strong performance in their Bellator lightweight title fight in January. Despite Nurmagomedov retaining his title through a disputed decision, he suggested Hughes needs another victory before a rematch.
Hughes had hoped to face Brent Primus, but Primus`s participation in the 2025 lightweight World Tournament made that impossible.
PFL Europe has announced a Belfast event for May 10, where Hughes will headline, describing it as a “dream come true.”
Paul Hughes to Face Bruno Miranda in Belfast on May 10
On May 10, Paul Hughes will have a celebrated homecoming in Ireland, following his impressive fight against Usman Nurmagomedov.
PFL has announced that Bruno Miranda of Brazil will be Hughes`s opponent. Miranda, 34, joined PFL in 2022 and initially extended his win streak to seven fights.
His winning streak was interrupted by losses to Brent Primus and Olivier Aubin-Mercier, a former two-time PFL lightweight champion.
Miranda recovered with a split decision victory over Patricky Pitbull in June, a fight PFL recognized as one of the top five of 2024.
Miranda aims to prevent Hughes from getting a rematch with Nurmagomedov, which would be a major event for PFL.
Paul Hughes`s Resilience and Determination
Fighting in front of his home crowd with a potential title rematch at stake is unlikely to intimidate Paul Hughes, given his PFL performances.
Following his Dublin debut win last June, many considered his fight against AJ McKee too soon for Hughes. However, it became his breakthrough moment.
Hughes not only went head-to-head with Usman Nurmagomedov but pushed the champion to his limit, defying doubts about his readiness.
The 27-year-old seems to excel under pressure and will need this quality to overcome Bruno Miranda and keep his title aspirations alive.
