Connor Hughes made a significant statement to the PFL lightweight division at the recent PFL Belfast event. Facing Sebastien Di Franco in a key bout on Saturday, the rising English fighter delivered arguably the most impressive performance of his young career.
Hughes started the fight strongly, dictating the pace with sharp striking and effective low kicks targeting Di Franco. The decisive moment came in the second round when Hughes landed a powerful right hook that bypassed Di Franco`s guard, instantly knocking him unconscious and ending the fight.
This victory follows Hughes` strong showing in the 2024 PFL Europe lightweight championship, where he finished as the runner-up after losing to Jakub Kaszuba in the final. By defeating Di Franco, Hughes now advances to the semifinals of the 2025 PFL Europe lightweight championships, where his next opponent will be Gino van Steenis.
Neville Woodall 
Duncan Priestley