Paulo Costa Targets Khamzat Chimaev After Facing Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327

Paulo Costa has intensified his feud with Russian fighters during UFC 327 fight week, expressing a strong desire for a grudge match against Khamzat Chimaev.

Costa is set to make his light heavyweight debut against the undefeated Russian contender Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 in Miami on April 11th. This co-main event bout could significantly impact Costa's path to a title shot. The Brazilian, a former middleweight title challenger with a 15–4 professional record, has gained weight for his move to the 205-pound division. He has positioned Murzakanov (16–0) as his next Russian opponent whom he intends to defeat.

During a media day press conference, Costa commented on his willingness to fight Russians, acknowledging their toughness, but then adopted a more aggressive stance to enhance the fight's appeal.

"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."

The animosity towards Russian fighters began months prior when Paulo Costa shared a photograph and a message targeting "bald, chubby Russians," which was widely interpreted as a jab at Murzakanov's physique. He has continued this theme in interviews and public appearances, blending humor with pointed remarks about Russian fighters in general. A recent social media post quoted Costa saying he "hates these f—king Russians" and vowed to call out Chimaev if he wins at UFC 327.

Chimaev remains the ultimate target of Costa's trash talk. The rivalry between them has been brewing since their originally scheduled fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi in October 2023, which Costa had to withdraw from due to elbow surgery. Chimaev remained on the card, extended his undefeated streak, and later became the middleweight champion by defeating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Costa has closely followed Chimaev's success, attending events and using interviews to maintain a connection with the champion.

Looking ahead to UFC 327, Costa has stated his openness to fighting Chimaev in either the middleweight or light heavyweight division, depending on the outcome of his debut at 205 pounds. Earlier this year, he argued that a decisive victory over Murzakanov should place him "in line" for a fight with Chimaev, whether for a middleweight title or a high-profile non-title bout. He views Murzakanov as the second opponent in a sequence of Russian fighters, with Chimaev being the third he aims to face.

For now, Costa's immediate focus is on Murzakanov, a powerful and undefeated wrestler known for his finishing ability, who aims to disrupt Costa's light heavyweight debut. However, Costa has made it clear that his strategy involves speaking ahead to his next potential opponent, intending to defeat Murzakanov and then use the platform to challenge Chimaev.