Experts Shocked by Usman Nurmagomedov’s Controversial PFL Dubai Scorecards

Usman Nurmagomedov’s recent victory over Paul Hughes at PFL Dubai has sparked significant controversy, particularly regarding the scorecards. The fight, held as part of the PFL lightweight title match, ended in a unanimous decision in favor of Nurmagomedov.

Scorecard Controversy at PFL Dubai

The match was notably competitive, with both fighters displaying impressive skills throughout the five rounds. However, the scoring drew widespread criticism. While the majority of observers saw it as a close battle, most scoring it 48-47, the official scorecards revealed stark discrepancies.

• One judge calculated a score of 50-45 for Nurmagomedov.
• Another judge scored it 49-46 in favor of Nurmagomedov.
• One judge saw the fight as a narrow 48-47 for Hughes.

The 50-45 scorecard raised eyebrows, as many experts argued there was no justification for Hughes not winning any rounds. The differing opinions on the judges’ decisions have led to discussions on judging standards in mixed martial arts (MMA).

Controversial Moments During the Fight

The match featured several contentious instances that contributed to the scrutiny of the officiating. Referee Keith Peterson faced criticism for his management of the bout, particularly regarding:

• Two official low blows called against Nurmagomedov.
• An uncalled low blow that many believed occurred.
• A headbutt delivered by Nurmagomedov after the bell, which did not result in any points being deducted.

These factors could have influenced the final scoring, leading to further debate about the fairness of the outcome.

Response from MMA Community

Following the fight, numerous MMA professionals expressed their views on Nurmagomedov’s performance and the controversial scorecards. The mixed reactions highlight an ongoing concern regarding judging practices in the sport.

As the debate surrounding Nurmagomedov’s victory continues, it raises questions about accountability and the consistency of officiating in PFL events and across MMA in general.