Paulo Costa Looking to Defeat Khamzat Chimaev In Two Weight Classes

Brazilian UFC fighter Paulo Costa, despite his upcoming move to the light heavyweight division, remains intensely focused on a future confrontation with current UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev.

The animosity between Costa, known as "The Eraser," and Chimaev, "Borz," is well-documented, with both fighters expressing a strong desire to settle their bitter rivalry in the Octagon.

In a recent interview, Costa teased the launch of his "Secret Juice" beverage after his upcoming fight. When questioned if Chimaev would be sampling his new concoction, Costa playfully retorted that Chimaev appeared "fatty" and undeserving, stating, "Secret juice is for nice people. He is not nice."

Costa is slated to face the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 on April 11. He plans to decisively defeat Murzakanov and then pursue the highly anticipated clash with Chimaev.

Paulo Costa Open to Fighting Khamzat Chimaev at 185 or 205 Pounds

Costa further emphasized his openness to fighting Chimaev in either the middleweight (185 pounds) or light heavyweight (205 pounds) division. He stated that following a strong performance against Murzakanov at UFC 327, he could either return to middleweight to challenge Chimaev or await Chimaev's potential move up to light heavyweight. Costa expressed his preference for the 205-pound division but confirmed he is "not closed to 185" for this specific rivalry.

The Brazilian contender boldly claimed to be Chimaev's "worst match," asserting the necessity of this fight. "He is my goal. I am sick of him. I hope very soon we can fight," Costa declared, highlighting the intensity of their rivalry.

Meanwhile, Khamzat Chimaev, who secured the UFC middleweight championship last year, is anticipated to make his inaugural title defense post-Ramadan, with potential opponents including Nassourdine Imavov or Sean Strickland.

The Chechen-born Emirati fighter has publicly stated his intention to defend his 185-pound belt once before pursuing a move to light heavyweight to contend for a second divisional title.