Paulo Costa may have found new life at light heavyweight, but the Brazilian contender has not given up on his pursuit of UFC gold at 185 pounds.
Costa returned to the light heavyweight division in impressive fashion at UFC 327, stopping Azamat Murzakanov via TKO and putting himself in a strong position in the 205-pound rankings. Despite that momentum, his attention remains partially fixed on middleweight champion Sean Strickland.
The two previously met at UFC 302, where Strickland edged out a split-decision victory in a fight that failed to live up to expectations.
Costa Reflects Blames Strickland Defeat on Wrong Strategy
Looking back on the bout, Costa believes the biggest issue was not his conditioning or preparation. Instead, he points to the game plan he carried into the cage.
“Would I like a rematch with Strickland? Yes!”
“It wasn’t a good fight for either of us.”
Costa explained that he entered the contest feeling ready physically and technically, but believes his approach during the fight was flawed. According to Costa, he spent too much time giving ground and allowing Strickland to dictate the pace.
“My strategy was very wrong. I was technically and physically very well prepared, but tactically I wasn’t adjusted properly.”
The former title challenger feels a second fight would look much different if given the opportunity.
“I kept moving backwards.”
“I think I should have made it more of a firefight, stayed in the center of the octagon more, mixed punches, kicks and takedowns, made the fight messier.”
Strickland Sits on Top of the Division
Since defeating Costa, Strickland has strengthened his position by capturing the middleweight championship at UFC 328 with a victory over Khamzat Chimaev.
Chimaev has publicly pushed for a second meeting with Strickland after their closely contested fight, but UFC CEO Dana White has not committed to booking an immediate rematch.
That leaves several contenders waiting for their opportunity, with Costa making it clear he would welcome another shot at the reigning champion.
While Costa remains a relevant name at middleweight, he acknowledged that his recent success at 205 pounds may put him closer to a title opportunity in that division. Interestingly, The Brazilian Adonis also recently called out heavyweight Josh Hokit and MVP welterweight Mike Perry.