RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed.
Paulo Costa finds himself in the title mix after UFC Fight Night 282.
Former UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev (21-2-1 MMA, 12-2-1 UFC) dominated Bogdan Guskov (18-3-1 MMA, 4-1-1 UFC) in this past Saturday's main event at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Costa (16-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC), who finished Azamat Murzakanov in his return to light heavyweight at UFC 327, ripped Ankalaev's performance . The Brazilian weighed his options, and doesn't see Ankalaev getting the title shot.
"Some say I should fight Jiri or Ankalaev. Jiri’s coming off a dumb loss and Ankalaev after one more super boring fight, is closer to getting cut than to the title."
Some say I should fight Jiri or Ankalaev. Jiri’s coming off a dumb loss and Ankalaev after one more super boring fight, is closer to getting cut than to the title. pic.twitter.com/eYkEQCO1DE
— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) July 28, 2026 Ankalaev welcomed a fight with Costa , but fears he won't engage in a striking battle. Costa criticized Ankalaev for getting booed by the Abu Dhabi crowd.
"Ankalaev was booed in Abu Dhabi, it’s unbelievable."
Ankalaev was booed in Abu Dhabi, it’s unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/oGZnycUMe0
— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) July 28, 2026 This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Paulo Costa: Magomed Ankalaev 'closer to getting cut than to the title'
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