Following an early announcement from the promotion’s chairman on Friday, the PFL has officially named its free agent signings.
The promotion has signed top lightweight prospect Paul Hughes (11-1), a 27-year-old Cage Warriors standout. PFL President Ray Sefo let the news slip a little after Friday’s promotional card in Chicago, but on Sunday the company officially announced it.
“I’m really excited to sign with PFL,” Hughes said in a news release. “In my eyes, the regular season format is the ultimate format of mixed martial arts competition, with a final prize of $1 million at stake. Prove that you are the best lightweight on the planet. I’m ready.”
Australian-born Hughes will fight from Northern Ireland. Eight of his 11 wins have come by stoppage, including five. Earlier this month, he defeated Fabiano Silva at Cage Warriors 170, snapping a five-fight winning streak.
“The Professional Fighters League is always going to be in the mix when it comes to the free agency market, and this was certainly the case with Paul Hughes, someone we’ve had our eye on for quite some time,” PFL CEO Peter Murray said. release. “We look forward to watching Paul continue his journey in big matches as he continues to test his skills in the PFL.”
Hughes was the former Cage Warriors featherweight champion before relinquishing the belt and moving to lightweight in 2023, where he went 2-0. Following his TKO victory at Cage Warriors 170, Hughes became a free agent and announced his intention to sign with a major promotion.
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