Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 11, 2024 3:45 pm GMT
Irish mixed martial artist Paul Hughes is poised to take on one of the sport’s most prominent names, AJ McKee, in a highly anticipated lightweight bout at the Professional Fighters League (PFL) ‘Battle of the Giants’ event set for October 19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This matchup will occur on the undercard of a card headlined by former UFC champion Francis Ngannou, marking a significant milestone in Hughes’ career following his recent move to the PFL.
Hughes’ Transition to PFL
Paul Hughes’ journey in the mixed martial arts world took a decisive turn when he joined the PFL earlier this year. He previously fought under the Bellator banner, where he made a notable debut at Dublin’s 3Arena in June, defeating Bobby King via second-round TKO. This victory not only highlighted his skills but also set the stage for his upcoming high-profile clash with McKee.
Hughes expressed his excitement about joining the PFL, describing the opportunity as “life-changing.” He appreciates the promotional platform allowing him to showcase his talent on a larger stage. “I wanted the biggest fights they could give me; the hardest, most entertaining fights,” Hughes stated in a recent interview. “Now it’s time to show that I’m 3-0 at lightweight, three finishes, knocking people out.”
His transition from Cage Warriors, where he won the featherweight title, to PFL’s lightweight division is significant, as Hughes aims to establish himself among the best fighters globally.
A.J. McKee: A Formidable Challenge
AJ McKee, a former Bellator featherweight champion, poses a substantial challenge for Hughes. With only one loss in his professional career, McKee brings a wealth of experience and skill to the octagon. Currently enjoying a four-fight winning streak, McKee last faced and defeated Clay Collard in the PFL’s “PFL vs. Bellator” mega event earlier this year.
Despite being labeled the underdog in his upcoming bout, Hughes remains confident in his abilities. He views the fight as an opportunity to validate his capabilities on a grand scale. “When I beat him then it’s just proof of what I’ve been saying,” Hughes remarked, displaying his determination to not only compete but to win against a seasoned opponent.
Event Details and Significance
The ‘Battle of the Giants’ not only serves as a significant event for Hughes and McKee but also for the PFL as a promotion. This event marks PFL’s strategic venture into hosting major pay-per-view events and aims to elevate their visibility in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.
The card is headlined by a much-anticipated heavyweight title fight between Francis Ngannou and Renan Ferreira, while the co-main event features a matchup between women’s champions Cris Cyborg and Larissa Pacheco. Notably, this is Ngannou’s first fight under the PFL banner after a stint in boxing, and it is expected to draw significant attention, partly due to Ngannou’s star power.
Hughes’ Career Stands at a Crossroads
At just 27 years old, Hughes finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career as he competes against McKee, a fighter who has been a dominant presence in Bellator. McKee’s track record includes victories over many established names in the sport, making this matchup a critical test for Hughes.
Hughes’ career trajectory demonstrates resilience. After navigating various levels of competition, he has made the decision to advocate for bigger fights, reflecting a commitment to advance his skills at lightweight. His statement, “I asked for it and now I’ve got it,” encapsulates his readiness to confront challenges head-on.
Looking Ahead
As Hughes prepares for this upcoming fight, he aims not only to secure a win but also to position himself for a shot at the PFL title. A victory over McKee would significantly bolster his reputation and open doors for future opportunities within the sport.
The MMA community is closely watching this matchup, recognizing the potential implications for both fighters. For Hughes, a win could elevate him among the elite fighters in his division, while McKee seeks to cement his status further as a top contender following his recent successes.
The PFL ‘Battle of the Giants’ event is exciting because it has some great matches lined up. It’s a big chance for fighters like Hughes to show what they can do and make an important mark in their careers.
