Paulo Costa returned to the spotlight at UFC 327 with a statement victory over previously unbeaten Azamat Murzakanov. Moving up in weight, the Brazilian knocked out one of the division’s most feared contenders.
The performance immediately elevated Costa’s profile, drawing attention beyond the sport.
For instance, Donald Trump was seen speaking with him cageside and later praised him publicly on Truth Social, reinforcing his admiration for the Brazilian star.
Costa’s latest success has made him a target, with another rising contender stepping forward to demand a high-profile clash.
Bogdan Guskov calls out Paulo Costa after UFC 328 setback
Bogdan Guskov, currently ranked No.10 at light heavyweight, has openly targeted Costa following disruption to his own plans.
His scheduled rematch with Jan Blachowicz at UFC 328 on 9 May was cancelled due to a meniscus tear suffered by the former champion.
With that opportunity gone, Guskov turned his focus toward Costa, who has rapidly become one of the most talked-about fighters in the division.
He said (via Red Corner MMA): “Costa is on a huge hype right now. He beat one of the bogeymen of our division, and of course it would be very cool for me to fight him.
“Moreover, he said something there about Russian guys. Here is a Russian guy who grew up in Uzbekistan, ready to split the cage at any time. We will make him swallow his words back.”
Paulo Costa’s rise fuels potential title eliminator scenario
Costa’s recent victories over Azamat Murzakanov and Roman Kopylov have strengthened his reputation as a difficult opponent for Russian fighters from that region, which fuels intrigue regarding a potential bout against Guskov.
At 34, the Brazilian now sits seventh in the rankings, positioning a possible fight between them as highly significant.
With champion Carlos Ulberg sidelined by an ACL injury, the division lacks clarity, increasing the chances that such a bout could serve as a title eliminator.
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