Magomed Ankalaev may have a new opponent in mind for later this year.
After Paulo Costa declined a short-notice opportunity to face him at UFC Fight Night 282 in Abu Dhabi, the former UFC light heavyweight champion made it clear he would still welcome the matchup down the road.
Costa Explains Why He Passed on Abu Dhabi Opportunity
Ankalaev was originally booked to headline the July 25 card against Khalil Rountree at Etihad Arena. Those plans changed when Rountree was forced out due to injury.
The UFC explored replacement options and reached out to both Jan Blachowicz and Costa before ultimately booking Bogdan Guskov for the main event.
Appearing on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Costa explained why he decided against accepting the fight on less than two weeks’ notice.
“It’s so short notice, less than 14 days to get on a flight to Abu Dhabi,”
“Sixteen-hour flight to Abu Dhabi for five rounds, for the same money, and not for an interim belt.”
Costa added that while his current weight is manageable, he would need significantly more time to prepare for a proper cut to the light heavyweight limit.
“I thought about it, but it doesn’t make sense.”
“I should start a very strict diet because I need like seven or eight weeks to make weight properly.”
Ankalaev Calls for Fight Later This Year
Costa’s comments quickly caught Ankalaev’s attention.
The Russian contender responded on social media and suggested the matchup could happen after he takes care of business in Abu Dhabi.
“I agree with him – fight me.”
Ankalaev then proposed a timeline for the potential showdown.
“I’ll win my next fight, and then you and I can fight in October or November.”
Costa Building Momentum at Light Heavyweight
Costa recently made a successful move to the 205-pound division and delivered one of the biggest wins of his career.
At UFC 327, the Brazilian scored a head-kick TKO victory over Azamat Murzakanov, handing the previously unbeaten contender his first professional loss.
With Costa now establishing himself in a new weight class and Ankalaev looking for fresh challengers, a clash between the two could become one of the more intriguing light heavyweight matchups on the UFC calendar.