Sherdog’s Official Mixed Martial Arts Rankings

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Usman Nurmagomedov had his hands full with Paul Hughes, but he ultimately left Dubai with his undefeated record intact.

The Dagestani standout improved his career mark to 19-0, taking a majority decision over the former Cage Warriors title holders in the PFL Road to Dubai main event at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Saturday. The 26-year-old American Kickboxing Academy product retains his 155-pound title in victory, though it’s unclear what designation that belt has following the recent announcement that the Bellator brand is no more.

What is clear is that Nurmagomedov, while hardly invincible, is one of the world’s top lightweights. He’s also shown a knack for winning five-round fights. As a result, he moves to No. 13 in Sherdog’s latest lightweight rankings. For Hughes, the future still looks bright, though he is denied entry into the 155-pound poll — at least for now.

Note: Previous rankings listed in brackets.