\n<\/p>\n
The first fight had some close rounds which could have gone either way, with the pair engaging in a number of exciting striking exchanges.<\/p>\n
There were also three stoppages in the bout – two for accidental groin shots, which Nurmagomedov was deducted a point for, and one for a clash of heads which split Hughes’ forehead open.<\/p>\n
Hardy said Hughes will need to be busier if he wants to be victorious in the rematch.<\/p>\n
“I think Hughes’ volume will increase, he lost on volume in the rounds he lost,” added the 43-year-old.<\/p>\n
“Even though Usman’s kicks weren’t as impactful, it’s racking up points on the scorecard and a smart team around Paul, which I know he has, will be thinking we have to do more on the scorecards this time around.”<\/p>\n
Nurmagomedov’s team includes former UFC lightweight champion and cousin Khabib, who retired having won all 29 of his fights, and ex-UFC lightweight title holder Islam Makhachev.<\/p>\n
The team have built success around world-class grappling, but Hughes was able to nullify much of Nurmagomedov’s takedown threat in their first fight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n