Latest news with #PFLRoadtoDubaiChampionsSeries
USA Today
31-03-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Dan Hardy: No shortage of 2025 PFL fighters who could hang in UFC right now
Dan Hardy is confident many of the PFL's top stars would succeed in the UFC. The PFL analyst specifically referred to Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov's (19-0) successful title defense against Paul Hughes (13-2) in the main event of PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series in January, which turned out to be one of the more exciting and competitive fights of the year so far. Hardy also likes undefeated Bellator champion Johnny Eblen's (16-0) chances against any UFC middleweight. 'The UFC is such a strong brand and they really do dominate the sport,' Hardy told MMA Junkie Radio. 'It's easy for fans to look outside of the UFC and go, 'These fighters aren't good enough, otherwise they would be in the UFC.' We all know that's the case. We've got the likes of Paul Hughes now signed up and had a fantastic bout against Usman Nurmagomedov. Both of those fighters, for my money, could compete in the UFC at a similar level, and I would say the same for many of the champions – both across PFL and Bellator. 'Johnny Eblen, for me, could really cause problems for any middleweight in the world. It doesn't matter what promotion they're in. It's nice sometimes to be able to see those fighters like Kayla Harrison, who obviously dominated to a point in the PFL, then go over and have the same impact elsewhere. I think we could have a lot more of that success if there was more cross promotion. But, of course, that's why we don't get the cross-promotion fights. It was a risk when they were doing it with Pride, as well, because sometimes it didn't work out well for them.' PFL welterweights and featherweights will kick off their season Thursday at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla. PFL 2025, Week 1 is headlined by a 170-pound bout between Jason Jackson (18-5) and Andrey Koreshkov. Also featured on the main card is a matchup between Logan Storley (16-3) and Magomed Umalatov (17-1). Hardy spoke of the depth of talent in the tournament. 'The reality is, these fighters in this world tournament are world-class, competitive with any(one) – especially the lightweights and the welterweights,' Hardy said. 'They are incredibly deep brackets that we've got in these (tournaments), and I think we're going to see those level of fights come April.' For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie's event hub for PFL 2025, Week 1.
Associated Press
20-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Mindbase Education Expands Its Impact, Integrating Academics and Sports for UAE's Future Leaders
'Mindbase Education is committed to shaping well-rounded individuals by supporting students at every stage of their academic and professional journey' — Waleed Eshghi (Senior Management Office at Mindbase Education) ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, February 20, 2025 / / -- Mindbase Education, a leading institution in academic and athletic development, continues to redefine learning in the UAE. With a focus on holistic student growth, the institution is bridging the gap between traditional education and future-ready skills, preparing students for success in an evolving world. Since 2021, under the leadership of Tariq Al Obaidli, Mindbase Education has expanded its vision to integrate structured mentorship with sports training. This approach fosters discipline, resilience, and academic excellence, ensuring students excel both in the classroom and beyond. A key figure in this initiative is Hadi Omar Al Hussaini, an emerging Emirati MMA fighter and Mindbase Education's Student Coach and Brand Ambassador. Hadi recently secured a victory at the PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series, exemplifying the institution's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. His role at Mindbase Education emphasizes the balance between academics and athletic growth, inspiring students to pursue excellence in multiple areas. Empowering Students with Future-Ready Skills Mindbase Education provides a range of programs designed to equip students with leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking abilities. The newly launched sports and future skills training program in Al Ain further supports students by offering structured mentorship alongside world-class sports training. Beyond academics, the institution has introduced several initiatives, including: Gamified learning platforms to enhance engagement Career counseling services to guide students towards meaningful career paths Digital mentorship programs connecting students with industry professionals 'Our mission is to support students at every stage of their academic and professional journey,' said Waleed Eshghi, Senior Management Office at Mindbase Education. 'Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or as they transition into their careers, we aim to unlock their full potential.' Innovating for the Future Mindbase Education is set to launch several new initiatives, including the Lean Startup Program, expected to roll out within the next year. This program will equip students with entrepreneurial skills essential for today's competitive landscape. Additionally, the institution will introduce 'Mindbase Talks,' featuring motivational workshops, mentorship sessions, and real-life success stories to inspire students. These initiatives will provide firsthand insights from accomplished individuals, helping students cultivate the mindset and skills needed for long-term success. As Mindbase Education continues to expand its impact across the Middle East, its dedication to innovation and holistic learning remains at the core of its mission. Suraj Khatri X LinkedIn Instagram YouTube TikTok Legal Disclaimer:
USA Today
07-02-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Usman Nurmagomedov: I was '50 percent' in Bellator title win over Paul Hughes
Despite coming out on top, Usman Nurmagomedov wants fans to know that his full potential wasn't displayed in his latest title defense. Nurmagomedov (19-0) defended his Bellator lightweight title, a now defunct promotion under the PFL banner, against Irisman Paul Hughes (13-2) in the main event of PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series last month at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Nurmagomedov won a close and competitive majority decision that read 47-47, 48-46 and 48-46 on the judges' scorecards. Even though he retained his belt and his unbeaten record, Nurmagomedov says he was only a fraction of himself in that cage. 'I think I can prepare for this fight better,' Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. 'I know I can be better, more than I was that night. I for sure know I can finish this guy. After this fight, I see a lot of my mistakes. For myself, I know I was 50 percent in that cage. I will be ready for 100 percent, I know I can finish this guy.' For him, training in Dagestan while the bulk of his team was in San Jose training at AKA was a big issue for his preparation. He also wasn't 100 percent healthy entering the fight. 'For training camp I did it with tough guys, like one or two, but this is not enough,' Nurmagomedov said. 'I was alone, and it's really hard to push yourself when you don't have your coaches. Everyone was focused on Umar (Nurmagomedov), Islam (Makhachev), Tagir (Ulanbekov) in America. 'Of course, they control me, but it's different when you're training at home with your family and your friends. Sometimes you have to spend time a little bit with your family and do some diner with your brothers. This made me a little tired and don't get you recovered for next training session. Also, when I came to Dubai, I was sick two weeks before the fight.' As far as what's next, many online suggested an immediate rematch between Nurmagomedov and Hughes, given the entertaining and competitive nature of the fight. Some even claimed it as the best fight in PFL history. However, for Nurmagomedov, the fight wasn't as close as some people thought, and he wants to see Hughes prove his worth before running things back. 'If the people want, why not? If the fans want this fight, why not? Let him fight one time, and I'll fight with him again, but he has to win,' Nurmagomedov explained. 'He has to show me something. You can't lose all fine rounds and say I was close to finishing him. It doesn't work like that.'
Yahoo
28-01-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Video: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes: Best fight in PFL history? Immediate rematch?
Usman Nurmagomedov retained his Bellator lightweight title in thrilling fashion this past weekend. The undefeated protégé of UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov went toe to toe with Ireland's Paul Hughes to win a majority decision in the main event of PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. It was a highly competitive fight that had many fans entertained and debating who was the rightful winner. Some even suggested that Nurmagomedov (19-0) and Hughes (13-2) should run things back in an immediate rematch. So, should PFL book these two again? Did Nurmagomedov deserve the decision win? Was this the best fight in PFL's history? MMA Junkie's Nolan King, Mike Bohn, Danny Segura and host Gorgeous George discuss Nurmagomedov's title defense over Hughes and what should come next for both fighters. Watch their discussion in the video above, and don't miss this week's complete episode of "Spinning Back Clique" below on YouTube. Spinning Back Clique REPLAY: Usman Nurmagomedov defends Bellator title, Conor McGregor's career update, GFL draft, more Matchup Roundup: New UFC, PFL fights announced in the past two weeks (Jan. 13-26) Conor McGregor lashes out at Paul Hughes' loss: 'The Nurmagomedovs are not fighters' This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes: Best fight in PFL history? Immediate rematch?
USA Today
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Video: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes: Best fight in PFL history? Immediate rematch?
Usman Nurmagomedov retained his Bellator lightweight title in thrilling fashion this past weekend. The undefeated protégé of UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov went toe to toe with Ireland's Paul Hughes to win a majority decision in the main event of PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. It was a highly competitive fight that had many fans entertained and debating who was the rightful winner. Some even suggested that Nurmagomedov (19-0) and Hughes (13-2) should run things back in an immediate rematch. So, should PFL book these two again? Did Nurmagomedov deserve the decision win? Was this the best fight in PFL's history? MMA Junkie's Nolan King, Mike Bohn, Danny Segura and host Gorgeous George discuss Nurmagomedov's title defense over Hughes and what should come next for both fighters. Watch their discussion in the video above, and don't miss this week's complete episode of 'Spinning Back Clique' below on YouTube.
