Paulo Costa says he has one fight left on his UFC contract and believes a title shot could be next after his big win at UFC 327.
Contract status and plans
Costa confirmed after the fight that he has one fight remaining on his current deal. He said the UFC has already talked about a contract extension, but he wants to finish his last fight before making any decision. “I have one fight left on this contract. Let’s see what’s next. I think we’re in a good position to fight for the belt, maybe,” Costa said. He added that he feels grateful to the promotion but stressed this is his life and his choice.
UFC 327 win — date, location and result
Costa moved up to light heavyweight (205 pounds) and beat Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 in Miami on April 4. Costa stopped Murzakanov in the third round. The win handed Murzakanov his first career loss and was against the No. 6 ranked fighter in the division. The victory also extended Costa’s winning streak to two fights in a row.
Title paths at middleweight and light heavyweight
Costa now sees title chances at either middleweight or light heavyweight. The light heavyweight title picture changed on the same UFC 327 card when Carlos Ulberg knocked out Jiri Prochazka to claim the belt. Ulberg appeared to suffer a significant knee injury during that fight, leaving his status unclear.
At middleweight, Costa has a known rivalry with current champion Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev is scheduled to defend the middleweight title against Sean Strickland on May 16. Chimaev has also said he may move up to light heavyweight one day. How those fights go will shape the options for Costa in the months ahead.
What comes next
Costa said the UFC has asked about renewing his contract but he wants to see how his next fight plays out before negotiating. He seems open to a title shot if the division landscapes allow it. For now, he will wait to learn when and where his final contracted fight will be and then decide the next steps with the promotion.
| Fighter | Recent Result |
|---|---|
| Paulo Costa | Win — third-round stoppage vs Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 (Apr 4, Miami) |
| Azamat Murzakanov | Loss — suffered first career defeat vs Paulo Costa by third-round stoppage at UFC 327 (Apr 4, Miami) |
