Paulo Costa has intensified his rivalry with Russian fighters during UFC 327 fight week, making it clear he wants a grudge match against Khamzat Chimaev.
Costa is set to make his light heavyweight debut against undefeated Russian contender Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 in Miami on April 11. This co-main event bout could propel Costa, a former middleweight title challenger with a 15–4 record, directly into title contention. The Brazilian has gained weight for his move to the 205-pound division and has positioned Murzakanov (16–0) as the second consecutive Russian opponent he intends to defeat.
During a media day event, Costa commented on his preference for fighting Russians, describing them as tough. However, he quickly shifted to a more aggressive tone to enhance the fight’s promotion.
“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.”
Costa’s animosity towards Russian fighters was evident months prior when he posted a message targeting “bald, chubby Russians,” widely perceived as a jab at Murzakanov’s physique. He has continued this narrative in interviews and public appearances, blending humor with pointed remarks about Russian fighters. A recent social media post quoted Costa saying he “hates these f—king Russians” and vowed to call out Chimaev if victorious at UFC 327.
Khamzat Chimaev appears to be the ultimate objective of Costa’s verbal sparring. Their rivalry has been brewing since a scheduled bout at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi in October 2023, which was canceled due to Costa’s elbow surgery. Chimaev remained on the card and subsequently won the middleweight title against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Costa has closely followed Chimaev’s success, attending events and using interviews to maintain his relevance to the champion.
Leading up to UFC 327, Costa has stated 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 asserted that a convincing win over Murzakanov should position him for a fight against Chimaev, either for a middleweight title or a high-profile non-title bout. He has framed Murzakanov as a stepping stone in his pursuit of facing Chimaev as his third Russian opponent.
For now, Costa’s immediate focus is Murzakanov, a powerful wrestler with an undefeated record who aims to disrupt Costa’s light heavyweight debut. However, Costa has made it clear that he is fighting two opponents simultaneously: defeating Murzakanov, whom he referred to as a “fat guy” in one instance, and then using the post-fight spotlight to secure a matchup with Chimaev.