Khabib Nurmagomedov praises Ireland for Palestine support after Hughes loss

"I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan."

Usman Nurmagomedov's Bellator Lightweight World Championship belt was on the line in what was the top-billed fight in the PFL Champions Series 1 event.

Hughes was a big underdog but defied the odds to lose out by majority decision.

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov - who retired from MMA with a 29-0 record - is the cousin of Usman and was in his corner for the fight.

After the bout, the Muslim man thanked Ireland for their people's support for Palestine.

He said:

Khabib also invited Hughes and his family to his home in Dagestan.

He wrote on X: "Thank you for the fight @paulhughesmma and for the experience, I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want, believe me you will like it and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations"

Hughes responded: "@TeamKhabib I have great respect for you, your team and your nation. I would be honoured to take you up on this offer someday and then return the favour in Ireland

"But please, only after I get to rematch Usman."