Usman Nurmagomedov VS Paul Hughes: Live stream| 2 stream| Results

Introduction

When two elite lightweights collide, expectations run high — and Usman Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes 2 lived up to the hype. In this article, we cover everything you need: how to watch (including 2 streaming options), fight build-up, official results, round-by-round breakdowns, controversies, what’s next — and a handy FAQ section.

Fight Background & Build-Up

First Encounter: January 2025 — A Narrow Win

The first meeting between Nurmagomedov and Hughes took place on January 25, 2025, in Dubai, under the PFL Champions Series banner. Nurmagomedov, undefeated at 19-0 with one no contest, defended his Bellator (transitioning to PFL) lightweight title.  Hughes was a determined challenger with 14-2.

The fight was competitive and controversial: two judges scored it 48–46 for Nurmagomedov, and a third saw it 47–47 (draw) — the majority decision allowed Usman to retain.  There was also a point deduction in the bout, which further muddied the scoring.

Many fans and analysts believed Hughes had done enough to win or at least force a draw.

The Rematch Announcement

Following that razor-thin result, calls for a rematch grew louder. However, Nurmagomedov indicated that any rematch must come on his terms. Meanwhile Hughes responded forcefully: after a blistering 42-second knockout win over Bruno Miranda in May 2025, he called out Nurmagomedov, raising pressure for the rematch.

Eventually the rematch was booked: October 3, 2025, at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, for the PFL Lightweight World Championship. At weigh-ins on October 2, both fighters came in at exactly 155.0 lbs.

The fight card and streaming arrangements were confirmed: in the U.S., via ESPN Unlimited; in UK & Ireland via DAZN; in MENA through STARZPLAY.

How to Watch: Live Streams & Options (2 Streams)

Below are two main streaming options (subject to regional availability) and tips for ensuring you catch the fight live:

1. ESPN / ESPN App / ESPN Unlimited (U.S.)
   For viewers in the U.S., the fight was streamed live on the ESPN App, specifically for those with the ESPN Unlimited Plan.

2. DAZN & STARZPLAY (International / MENA / UK / Ireland)

   • In UK / Ireland: DAZN carried the event.

   • In MENA (Middle East / North Africa): STARZPLAY held streaming rights.

Tips for watchers:

• Confirm your region’s broadcaster ahead of time.

• Use official streaming platforms to avoid low-quality or illicit feeds.

• Make sure your internet bandwidth can handle HD video (5–10 Mbps recommended).

• Log in early and test playback before the bell.

(Note: Because of streaming rights restrictions, availability may vary by country. Always check your local providers.)

Fight Results & Scorecards

Outcome: Usman Nurmagomedov defeated Paul Hughes via unanimous decision after five rounds.

Official Scorecards: 50-45, 49-46, 48-47, all in favor of Nurmagomedov.

While the 50-45 card drew significant criticism — many observers believed it was implausible that Hughes failed to win any round — the decision stood.

Fight Highlights & Key Moments

• Nurmagomedov utilized grappling control, takedowns, and positional dominance to edge out rounds.

• Hughes showed resilience, defending well, escaping many takedown attempts, and landing sharp striking, especially in mid rounds.

• Several fouls occurred: low blows (some called, some not), and a headbutt by Nurmagomedov after the bell that went unpenalized.

• The judging disparity, particularly the 50-45 card, triggered uproar among MMA fans and analysts alike.

Round-by-Round Breakdown

To give you a clearer sense of how the fight unfolded, here’s a brief round-by-round summary (based on live updates, media round scoring, and post-fight commentary):

Media and fan scorers often saw it as something like 3–2 in favor of Usman, but the official cards heavily favored him.

Controversies & Community Reaction

Scorecards Under Scrutiny

The 50-45 score was widely criticized as too extreme, implying Hughes failed to win a single round. Many in the MMA community saw that as unrealistic given how competitive the fight was.

Foul Calls & Oversights

Multiple fouls by Nurmagomedov — especially low blows and a headbutt post-bell — drew attention. Some were called; others weren’t. Debate continues over whether point deductions should have altered the result.

Fan & Analyst Reactions

Many fans cried “robbery,” demanding replays of the fight and harsher judging oversight. Some pundits defended the result, pointing out Usman’s control phases and timing.  Reddit forums and MMA social media lit up with scorecard debate. Nurmagomedov vs Hughes.

What’s Next?

For Nurmagomedov

• He remains undefeated (now 20–0) and retains the PFL Lightweight World Title.

• His next challengers may include PFL Europe or internal tournament winners.

For Hughes

• Though coming up short again, Hughes gains credibility for durability and fan support.

• He is likely to focus on rebuilding, seeking another title shot or elite matchups.

• Many expected him to be target #1 for Nurmagomedov’s next defense; some rematch calls remain alive.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How did I watch Usman Nurmagomedov vs Paul Hughes 2?
A1: In the U.S., via ESPN App with ESPN Unlimited. In UK/Ireland via DAZN. In MENA via STARZPLAY.

Q2: What were the official fight results?
A2: Nurmagomedov won by unanimous decision: scorecards 50-45, 49-46, 48-47.

Q3: Why was the 50-45 judge’s card controversial?
A3: Many believed Hughes won at least one or two rounds, making the 50-45 (implying Hughes won none) unrealistic and overly generous to Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov vs Hughes.

Q4: Were there any fouls or point deductions?
A4: Yes — low blows and a post-bell headbutt by Nurmagomedov were noted; some were called, some weren’t. No additional point deductions changed the outcome.

Q5: What’s next for both fighters?
A5: Nurmagomedov will defend or take on top contenders; Hughes may rebuild for another title shot. Rematch debates still exist.