Usman Nurmagomedov defeated Paul Hughes for a second time in a razor-close fight, but it was the scorecards that are getting the attention following PFL Dubai.
After five insanely competitive rounds, Nurmagomedov captured the PFL lightweight title via unanimous decision. While most scored the fight 48-47 either way — which one judge did — two of the judges scored it 50-45 and 49-46 respectively. The 50-45 card is one of the more egregious scorecards we’ve seen in the last several years as there is just no way Hughes couldn’t have won any of the rounds.
The fight was also mired in controversy because of referee Keith Peterson. Nurmagomedov had two official low blows called, plus a third that appeared to happen, but wasn’t called. Additionally, Nurmagomedov — while not with full force — also headbutted Hughes after the bell. No points were taken, which would’ve effected the cards as well.
MMA pros reacted to the fight, and the scorecards. Check out some of them below.
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