Ilia Topuria solidified his reputation among the best mixed martial artists in the world by knocking out two former featherweight champions. Meanwhile, Paul Hughes, who is set to challenge Usman Nurmagomedov for the Bellator lightweight title, has been training with Topuria. In a recent training video featuring ‘El Matador,’ Hughes sought to sharpen his striking skills, which has created a buzz among fans.
A recent training video has sparked heated debate among fans. Umar Nurmagomedov, who remains undefeated, enjoys strong backing from UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, who plays a key role in his training and coaching. However, fans believe Paul Hughes has the potential to “beat another Nurmagomedov,” referencing Umar’s recent loss to Merab Dvalishvili. This belief was further fueled by fans reacting to Hughes’ intense sparring session with featherweight champion Topuria.
Hope he beats another Nurmagomedov
— Anurag Anupam (@theanuraganupam) January 25, 2025
One fan reacted, stating Usman will defeat Hughes.
Usman might actually kill him
— Big Wes👑💙 Mount Everest🏔 (@rpbigwes) January 25, 2025
No need for headgear against this bum
— MMA Headz (@MMAHEADZ) January 25, 2025
No need for headgear against this bum
— MMA Headz (@MMAHEADZ) January 25, 2025
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No need for headgear against this bum
— MMA Headz (@MMAHEADZ) January 25, 2025
One conor fan sparring with another
— The OG Dragon 🐉 🌶️ 🗿 (@HiFxinSociopath) January 25, 2025
Heard that thus guy used to do war in kill cliff
— 🥋 (@BJJPropaganda) January 25, 2025
Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria Praises Merab Dvalishvili’s Performance
Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov is the most high-level bantamweight fight he’s ever seen. Umar dominated the early rounds, but Dvalishvili’s unmatched cardio turned the tide, earning him a decision win. Reacting to the fight, Ilia Topuria praised Dvalishvili on X:
“Merab, my brother, what a fighter you are! You make us feel so proud. This is what happens when Dagestani wrestling meets Georgian wrestling.”
Merab, my brother, what a fighter you are! You make us feel so proud. This is what happens when Dagestani wrestling meets Georgian wrestling 👏🏻🇬🇪
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 19, 2025
Merab Dvalishvili has made his Georgian fans proud, firmly establishing his dominance over the bantamweight division. Fans are now eagerly waiting to see who will step up as the next challenger for the Georgian star.
Also Read: Chael Sonnen Argues Umar Nurmagomedov Out-Performed Merab Dvalishvili At UFC 311
