Paulo Costa has amplified the rivalry with Russian fighters during UFC 327 fight week, making a strong push for a grudge match against Khamzat Chimaev.
Costa is set to make his light heavyweight debut against the undefeated Russian contender Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 on April 11th. This co-main event fight could significantly impact Costa’s position in the title contention. The Brazilian, a former middleweight title challenger with a record of 15 wins and 4 losses, has gained weight for his move to the 205-pound division. He has positioned Murzakanov, who boasts a perfect 16–0 record, as the second consecutive Russian opponent he intends to defeat.
During media day, Costa stated his enjoyment of fighting Russians, acknowledging their toughness, but then shifted to a more confrontational tone to promote the fight.
“I hate Russians. This is the second one in a row that I’m gonna put on my record, and the third one maybe Chimaev. I want him next after beating this fat guy.”
The animosity was evident months in advance when Paulo Costa shared a photo and a message targeting “bald, chubby Russians,” a comment widely interpreted as a jab at Murzakanov’s physique. He has maintained this narrative through interviews and public appearances, blending humor with pointed remarks about Russian fighters in general. A recent social media headline quoted Costa expressing his hatred for “these f—king Russians” and his intention to call out Chimaev if he wins at UFC 327.
Chimaev remains the primary focus of Costa’s trash talk. Their rivalry has been simmering since their initially scheduled fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi in October 2023, which was canceled due to Costa’s elbow surgery. Chimaev remained on the card, extended his undefeated streak, and later secured the middleweight title by defeating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Costa has closely followed Chimaev’s ascent, attending events and utilizing interviews to maintain a connection with the current champion.
Leading up to UFC 327, Costa has expressed his willingness to face Chimaev in either the middleweight or light heavyweight division, depending on the outcome of his debut at 205 pounds. Earlier this year, he argued that a decisive victory over Murzakanov should position him for a fight with Chimaev, whether for the 185-pound title or as a high-profile non-title bout. He views Murzakanov as the second step in a sequence of Russian opponents, with Chimaev being the desired third.
For now, Costa’s immediate concern is Murzakanov, a powerful wrestler with an undefeated streak who aims to disrupt Costa’s light heavyweight debut. However, Costa has made it clear that his strategy involves not only winning but also using the platform to challenge Chimaev for a fight, calling him the ultimate target after defeating Murzakanov.