Just two weeks after hitting the free agent market, high-profile Irish prospect Paul Hughes has signed a contract with the PFL that will see him promoted for the next three years.
Hughes made a name for himself in Cage Warriors, where he won the featherweight title and amassed an 8-1 record, becoming one of the most exciting names in European MMA. After defeating Fabiano Silva by first-round knockout in early April, there was a lot of talk about how he would end up, with many calling for the UFC to sign the future star.
In the end, Hughes instead signed with the PFL and will fight three times in 2024 before competing in the $1 million lightweight tournament in 2025 and 2026.
“It’s really a testament to them that they tested me as a free agent and then promoted me as quickly as the PFL,” Hughes told Sky Sports. “They obviously believe in me, they believe in my skills, and at the end of the day, I’m the best in the world, so it makes sense for them to come and get me. I’m happy that I was able to reach my highest grade.” Deal less than two weeks after the fight. So I’m incredibly excited right now. ”
“In my opinion, the PFL Million Dollar Tournament is without a doubt one of the toughest competitions in all of sports,” he said. “Four fights in 10 months, fighting for $1 million in prize money and the ultimate glory of a world title. That’s an easy sell, dude. I think I’m the best in the world. I believe, I believe I have all the skills and I believe I will be a millionaire by the end of next year.”
Hughes laughed when asked if he had received an offer from the UFC.
“It’s clearly not a meaningful offer,” he said. “They came to me with an offer and I know my value in this game and the PFL knows my value in this game and they are willing to invest in me. So people think it’s going to be difficult.” It was the easiest decision of my life. Once you weigh the contracts, participating in a PFL tournament is a very easy decision. ”
In recent years, the UFC has become very reluctant to offer serious contracts to any prospects. Paddy Pimblett was forced to sign a $12,000/$12,000 contract to qualify. French star Cedric Doumbe has forfeited his $20,000/$20,000 contract with the UFC to earn more than $100,000 per fight with the PFL.
So while it’s a shame that another exciting new name won’t be joining the UFC, it’s not at all surprising.
