We asked AI to predict the winner of Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes at PFL Champions Series Dubai (And it offered two outcomes in reply)
The Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes grudge match is scheduled to headline the PFL Champions Series 1 (aka PFL Champions Series - Road to Dubai) event. We asked Google's AI, Gemini, to predict the Nurmagomedov-Hughes winner and it put forth two outcomes.
Dagestan's Nurmagomedov defends his Bellator lightweight title against Ireland's Hughes at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, U.A.E., on Jan. 25, 2025. The AI prediction asserted that Nurmagomedov is expected to defeat his Irish foe. The fight breakdown hinged on three factors - Usman's dominance, the challenges Hughes could face and the potential for an upset.
It suggested that Usman boasts a robust wrestling foundation and an evolving striking skill set, adding that he's an incredibly skillful combatant overall. The champion's praiseworthy dominance in his career, including his stoppage wins over various opponents, was also hailed.
Meanwhile, it indicated that Hughes is a sturdy combatant but might face difficulty in matching the champion's grappling. It was underscored that although the possibility of an upset can't be ruled out in the sport of MMA, the champion is heading into the matchup as a significant favorite.
Moreover, the prediction listed two potential scenarios/outcomes for Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes - Nurmagomedov winning, either via submission or decision.
Firstly, it explained that Nurmagomedov's grappling arsenal is a huge edge and could help him bag a submission stoppage early in the match. Secondly, it highlighted that if their match goes the distance, the champion's control and supposedly greater skill set could help him secure a win on the scorecards.
Also, a couple of key factors at play would be the early grappling exchanges and Paul Hughes' striking accuracy. The AI suggested that the manner in which Nurmagomedov controls the grappling exchanges in the early rounds will be a major deciding factor. Additionally, if the Irishman can catch Nurmagomedov with significant strikes early on, he could throw off the champion's rhythm.
It was deemed that Usman Nurmagomedov was the predicted winner, but given MMA's unpredictability, his Irish opponent could score an upset win if he could exploit the champion's weaknesses.
A closer look at the PFL Champions Series Dubai headliner: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes
The 26-year-old Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0, 1 No Contest) is the younger brother of UFC bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of retired MMA great Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Back in 2024, there was widespread speculation that combat sports megastar and former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor, who lent his support to Hughes, could corner his fellow Irishman in his upcoming title fight. McGregor and the Nurmagomedov family have long been at odds, owing to the fierce rivalry between 'The Notorious' and ex-UFC lightweight kingpin Khabib Nurmagomedov.
As such, many fans have pointed out that the PFL and the PFL-owned Bellator extensively utilized the Dagestan vs. Ireland angle while promoting Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes. Usman recently jibed at Hughes, labeling him "Irish chatterbox part two."
Meanwhile, the 27-year-old Hughes (13-1 MMA) fired back, claiming there was an error in translation in regard to his (Hughes') previous comments. Furthermore, 'Big News' vowed to hand Nurmagomedov his first professional MMA defeat.