Derry man Paul Hughes was edged out by Usman Nurmagomedov in a brilliant Bellator lightweight title fight on Saturday.
Nurmagomedov retained his belt with a majority decision victory in Dubai, but he was pushed all the way by 27-year-old Hughes, who left nothing in the octagon.
The judges scored it 47-47, 48-46, 48-46 in Nurmagomedov's favour as he extended his winning streak to 19 fights.
For Hughes, it was a bitter blow. However his reputaion will be further enhanced after an accomplished and gutsy showing against an ooponent coached by former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
"I really thought I won that one," Hughes said afterwards.
"I should have pushed harder. We're going to fight again. I really respect Usman, I probably left some in the tank but I won't next time.
"We have to do the rematch in Belfast, it has to be in Belfast. I think I've earned this. All the guys in Dagestan, you will be welcome in Ireland."
