Since joining the PFL, Paul ‘Big News’ Hughes has made a significant impact globally, and now he is set to bring his fights back to his hometown.
Usman Nurmagomedov acknowledged Paul Hughes`s impressive performance during their Bellator lightweight title match in January, a fight that ended in a debated decision in favor of Nurmagomedov.
Despite retaining his title in a controversial manner, Nurmagomedov suggested Hughes needs another victory before a rematch can occur.
Hughes had hoped to fight Brent Primus, but Primus`s participation in the 2025 lightweight World Tournament made that option impossible.
The PFL Europe has announced an event in Belfast on May 10, where Hughes will be the main attraction, fulfilling what he described as a “dream come true.”
Paul Hughes vs. Bruno Miranda Announced for Belfast Event
On the same night as the PFL Europe tournament`s third event, Paul Hughes will enjoy a celebrated homecoming in Ireland, following his noteworthy performance against Usman Nurmagomedov.
The PFL has confirmed that Bruno Miranda of Brazil, a fighter with six prior appearances in the promotion, will be Hughes`s opponent on May 10.
Miranda, 34, joined the PFL in 2022 after a four-win streak, which he extended to seven upon entering the new league.
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, which the PFL recognized as one of the top five fights of 2024.
Now, Miranda aims to prevent Hughes from securing a rematch with the undefeated Nurmagomedov, a fight that would be a major event for the PFL.
Hughes`s Proven Ability to Rise to Big Occasions
Fighting in front of his Irish fans with a potential title rematch at stake is unlikely to intimidate Paul Hughes, given his PFL performances so far.
After winning his debut in Dublin last June, many felt the AJ McKee fight might be too soon for ‘Big News,’ but it became his breakout moment.
Hughes not only went head-to-head with Usman Nurmagomedov but also pushed the champion to his limit, despite some questioning if it was too early in his career for such a challenge.
At 27, Hughes seems to excel under pressure and will need this quality again to avoid being sidelined by the dangerous Bruno Miranda in his pursuit of the title.
