Paulo Costa has a new date and opponent for his next UFC appearance. The Brazilian originally planned to fight middleweight Brunno Ferreira at UFC 326 on March 7. The promotion announced the matchup, then canceled it days later. Costa withdrew from the fight for undisclosed reasons. Gregory Rodrigues later stepped in to face Ferreira. That bout now appears on the undercard of Max Holloway versus Charles Oliveira 2.
The UFC has now locked in Costa’s return. He will compete just over one month later than first expected. The announcement sets up a major change in weight and a dangerous opponent.
Costa Set for Octagon Return at UFC 327
The UFC confirmed on Tuesday that Paulo Costa will return at UFC 327 on April 11. The former middleweight title challenger moves up to light heavyweight. He will face Azamat Murzakanov, an undefeated knockout specialist. Murzakanov owns a perfect 16-0 professional record. He has finished every opponent inside the distance.
The sixth-ranked contender delivered a career-defining performance in his last fight. He knocked out Aleksandar Rakic in the first round at UFC 321 in October. Costa reacted quickly to the news. He shared a shirtless photo on social media. His caption joked about bulking season and unlimited power.
UFC 327 Card Slowly Takes Shape
So far, the UFC has confirmed only three fights for UFC 327. The event currently lacks a main and co-main event. Costa and Murzakanov headline the early announcements. Another light heavyweight matchup also joins the card. Dominick Reyes will face Johnny Walker in Miami.
That fight marked the first official booking for the event. The UFC has also added a women’s strawweight contest. Tatiana Suarez will compete against Loopy Godinez. The promotion continues to build the lineup around these confirmed bouts.
Israel Adesanya Comeback Officially Announced
Israel Adesanya has not fought since February last year. Nassourdine Imavov stunned him with a knockout loss at UFC Saudi Arabia. The former champion now prepares for his return. The UFC booked Adesanya for UFC Seattle on March 28.
UFC president Dana White announced the matchup this week. Adesanya will take on Joe Pyfer. Pyfer currently sits at number 15 in the middleweight rankings. The fight represents a significant drop in opposition. Adesanya hopes to reset his career after three straight losses.
Joe Pyfer enters with momentum and ambition. A victory would launch him toward title contention. It could also push Adesanya closer to retirement.
