If Hughes was a big time striker I'd pick him easily, but the fact that his forte is great take downs, along with overpowering opponents and pounding them into the ground makes me wary. Unfortunately obviously gracie's strength is fighting from the guard. So its strength on strength. I've seen Hughes power out of some awesome submissions so its not inconceivable that even if gracie gets one sunk that he can tap Matt out. I'm picking Hughes simply b/c this isn't the early 90's. MMA fighters are well versed in BJJ now and gracie isn't going to suprise Hughes with what he is going to try. Gracie is the better submission artist but to me Hughes is a more well rounded fighter. I'm not so sure about the GI issue. I know that there are some very specific uniform rules set out by the state commisions. I'd be interested to find out myself.