Following months of uncertainty, sources indicate that Paulo Costa has finally agreed to a new contract with the UFC and that a matchup with Khamzat Chimaev is likely in the works. One veteran, though, thinks the Brazilian might prevail.Since quite some time, “Borrachinha” and the UFC have been at odds. He wanted to leave the octagon and go into boxing. The middleweight will continue to compete in the cage for the foreseeable future thanks to his new bumper contract, however switching sports is still an option in the future.
Josh Thomson, a former UFC contender, thinks that Paulo Costa possesses the ideal style to defeat Khamzat Chimaev in reaction to rumours that the two might square off. He recently said that if they did fight, Costa might eventually raise his hand, saying:
“[Khamzat Chimaev versus Paulo Costa?] I believe he will do well in that fight. Because he has strength in his hands and is difficult to defeat. He simply needs to get in shape. I believe he will push Chimaev in that fight, which is fantastic for him.
Costa has been a sensation under the UFC banner despite suffering back-to-back defeats in contests against Israel Adesanya and Marvin Vettori. After suffering both defeats, the 31-year-old was able to defeat Luke Rockhold and return to the winners’ circle, opening the door for him to pursue another title battle.
Is Paulo Costa Khamzat Chimaev’s next fight?
Khamzat Chimaev is currently in an odd circumstance. The rising talent and his supporters appear to be confused of what weight division he will be participating in moving forward.
Initially, ‘Borz’ planned to challenge for the welterweight championship. Since then, Dana White has maintained that the European must establish a home in the middleweight category and would no longer compete at 170 pounds.While there are several opponents available for Chimaev’s return to 185 pounds, a quick bout with Paulo Costa might be in the works. The two fan favourites have both expressed desire in a potential fight since their brawl at the UFC PI, and it may happen sooner rather than later.
