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A.J. McKee is ready to take his career to new heights as he prepares for his upcoming fight at PFL: Battle of the Giants in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The former Bellator featherweight champion believes that a win over Paul Hughes on Saturday will earn him a title shot against the undefeated Usman Nurmagomedov, who currently holds the 155-pound belt.
McKee, who has built an impressive record of 22-1, is confident that this fight is his stepping stone to facing Nurmagomedov, a bout long anticipated by MMA fans.
"The fight everyone has wanted for the longest is Usman and I, so I think this is the fight to get to that fight," McKee said during media day. "I just have to go handle business Saturday and onto bigger and better things."
However, McKee has expressed his displeasure with some of the remarks made by his opponent Paul Hughes (12-1). McKee believes there’s a difference in their approach to the fight, particularly in the level of respect they show.
"We’re completely two different human beings," McKee explained. "I think he’s a little headstrong and arrogant, but that’s my personal opinion."
Despite the trash talk, McKee remains focused, knowing that once the cage doors close, only their skills will matter. Although McKee has his sights set on Usman Nurmagomedov, he acknowledges the challenge Hughes presents.
"I can’t look past Paul Hughes, but at the same time I know where I see myself and what it takes to be there."
Saturday’s fight will determine if McKee gets one step closer to the title shot he’s been chasing.
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