Paulo Costa is champing at the bit to get his next UFC booking, but claims the company has been slow-playing him.
Former middleweight title challenger Costa (16-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC) moved up to light heavyweight in April and made an emphatic divisional debut at UFC 327 with a stoppage victory over the previously undefeated Azamat Murzakanov.
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It was one of the finest performances of Costa’s octagon tenure, and he was hoping to capitalize on the momentum with a quick turnaround with the final fight of his current UFC contract, making himself available to fight at 185 pounds, 205 pounds or even at heavyweight.
The Brazilian claims his wishes have gone unanswered, though, and on Monday he went public with his frustrations (via X):
Costa’s plea for inactivity is notable in that he has only fought more than once in a calendar year one time since 2017, which came in 2024 when he suffered losses to Robert Whittaker and Sean Strickland.
The 35-year-old has momentum on his side with his first winning streak this decade, and Costa made it clear that any more waiting around is not what he wants.
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This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Paulo Costa expresses frustration with UFC waiting for next booking
