PFL makes Paul Hughes signing official

After an early announcement from the promotion’s president Friday, the PFL has made a marquee free agent signing official.

The promotion has signed top lightweight prospect Paul Hughes (11-1), a 27-year-old who has been a standout for Cage Warriors. PFL president Ray Sefo let leak a tidbit of the news after the promotion’s Friday card in Chicago, and Sunday the company made it official.

“I am absolutely ecstatic to sign with the PFL,” Hughes said in a news release. “The regular season format, in my eyes, is the ultimate form of MMA competition and is for the ultimate prize of $1 million. I’m ready to prove that I am the best lightweight on the planet.”

Hughes, born in Australia, fights out of Northern Ireland. Of his 11 wins, eight have been stoppages, including five knockouts. Eaerlier this month, he finished Fabiano Silva at Cage Warriors 170 for his fifth straight win.

“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 have had our eye on for quite some time,” PFL CEO Peter Murray said in the release. “I’m looking forward to seeing Paul continue his journey with PFL in big fights that continue to test his skills.”

Hughes was Cage Warriors’ featherweight champion, but vacated the belt and moved to lightweight in 2023, where he has gone 2-0. Following his TKO win at Cage Warriors 170, Hughes announced his free agency and intention to sign with a major promotion.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for 2024 PFL 3.