Archie Colgan is set to fight in a No. 1 contender’s match against Mansour Barnaoui, with the winner earning a shot at lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, while Paul Hughes expresses frustration over being overlooked for a rematch.
Archie Colgan was itching to get back in the cage. When he heard he’d be fighting in a No. 1 contender’s match, with a shot at lightweight champ Usman Nurmagomedov on the line, he was all in.
Paul Hughes, on the other hand, wasn’t thrilled. He’s been eager for a rematch with Nurmagomedov ever since that nail-biting decision loss in January. When PFL announced Colgan’s fight with Mansour Barnaoui, Hughes took to social media, saying, “Hey, quit with the rage bait.”
Colgan’s fight was always meant to be a No. 1 contender’s match. After a dominant win over Barnaoui, he’s earned his shot. “I had known that leading into it,” Colgan told MMA Fighting. His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, had prepped him for this moment.
“I do expect to fight Usman next,” Colgan said. If not, labeling it a No. 1 contender’s fight would’ve been pointless. He’s ready for the challenge.
Colgan gets why Hughes might be upset. Hughes had a blazing win recently, trying to rebound from his loss to Nurmagomedov. But Colgan feels he’s earned his place with a solid 12-0 record.
“No shade against Paul Hughes,” Colgan mentioned. Hughes had his chance and put up a great fight. But now, it’s Colgan’s turn. He doesn’t plan on missing his shot.
Hughes came close, losing a tight decision. His takedown defense gave Nurmagomedov trouble, but Colgan believes his wrestling offers a different threat.
Colgan was a standout wrestler at the University of Wyoming. He thinks his skills will pose problems for Nurmagomedov that Hughes couldn’t.
“What happens when this guy takes me down?” Colgan mused. It’s not just a possibility—it’s going to happen. He plans to score takedowns and challenge Nurmagomedov in ways others haven’t.
As of now, no official date is set, but Colgan expects the fight around October or November. If all goes well, he’s ready for whatever challenges come next.
“Of course [I would fight Paul Hughes],” Colgan said. Once you’re the champ, everyone wants a shot. There’ll be a lineup, and Hughes will have to wait his turn.
Colgan envisions a list of contenders. Usman might want a rematch, Hughes will be eager, and Gadzhi Rabadanov could emerge as a tournament winner. The competition is fierce.