American UFC Fighter Sparks Khamzat Chimaev Flashbacks as Europe Faces Paris Disappointment

The UFC returned to Paris in style, kicking off its 2025 card with a statement-making women’s strawweight clash. First up, American star Sam Hughes took center stage against Irish prospect Shauna Bannon, and from the opening bell, it was all Hughes. Using relentless wrestling reminiscent of Khamzat Chimaev, she controlled the pace, neutralizing Bannon at every turn. Then, by the second round at 1:58, Hughes locked in a clean rear-naked choke, forcing a tap and dismantling Bannon with a performance that left fans and commentators stunned.

With the win, Sam Hughes extended her streak to three, and for anyone still questioning her skills, it was a reminder of the elite level of her ground game—so sharp that even some male fighters would take notice. Michael Bisping had dismissed her as a “generic American fighter,” yet Hughes’ display silenced the doubters. In the post-fight interview, she highlighted her power and precision, shutting down Conor McGregor’s pick, Shauna Bannon, who he had hyped on Instagram before the event with the caption: “Let’s go, Shauna!”

While the women’s strawweight fight set the tone, the main card spotlight belonged to the middleweight blockbuster: Nassourdine Imavov versus Caio Borralho. The winner would claim the No. 1 contender spot and stake a claim as a future threat to reigning middleweight kingpin Khamzat Chimaev, further adding anticipation to the Paris night.

First fight, first finish #UFCParis

Sam Hughes gets the rear-naked choke over Shauna Bannon!

Watch our prelims LIVE NOW on @UFCFightPass pic.twitter.com/EZPqJoTdsw

— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) September 6, 2025

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