Paulo Costa walked out of UFC 327 in Miami with a knockout win and a looming contract decision after stopping Azamat Murzakanov in the third round on April 4.
The victory marked Costa’s first appearance at light heavyweight and handed Murzakanov the first loss of his career. The result also extended Costa’s current run to two straight wins, following his previous victory over Roman Kopylov.
Speaking after the fight, Costa made it clear his time on his current deal is almost up. “I have one fight left on this contract,” he said, adding, “Let’s see [what’s next]. I think we’re in a good position to fight for the belt, maybe.”
Costa indicated the promotion has already made moves to keep him on the roster. “The UFC already wanted to renew [the contact],” Costa said. “We’re seeing if we do one more and then sit down [to negotiate].” He added, “I’m very grateful to the UFC,” before noting, “But it’s my life, right?”
UFC 327 also saw Carlos Ulberg claim the 205-pound championship with a first-round knockout of Jiri Prochazka in the main event after suffering an apparent knee injury. Ulberg has not yet revealed a diagnosis or timetable for his return.
Elsewhere in the title picture, middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, who has a rivalry with Costa and has expressed interest in moving to 205 pounds in the future, is scheduled to defend his belt on May 16 against Sean Strickland.
