Paulo Costa enjoyed a high-profile moment after UFC 327, following his knockout win over Azamat Murzakanov and a positive interaction with Donald Trump.
The Brazilian fighter later received public praise from the former US president, who congratulated him and predicted he would become a UFC champion in the future.
With that backing and momentum from his latest victory, attention has quickly turned to what comes next for the 34-year-old in the light heavyweight division.
Paulo Costa agrees on potential route to title amid light heavyweight uncertainty
Costa has now hinted at his preferred path to a title opportunity, as uncertainty surrounds the light heavyweight division following Carlos Ulberg’s injury.
There is no official confirmation yet, but the new champion could be sidelined for more than nine months if an ACL issue is confirmed.
Amid that scenario, a fan suggested an interim title fight could be the logical solution given the current state of contenders.
“Ulberg is out for a while & Poatan has left the division. The interim belt has to be on the line at some point. Ankalaev, Jiri, Rountree, Murzakanov, Hill are all coming off losses. The logical next fight for LHW gold is Paulo Costa vs winner of Jan/Gusgov,” a fan posted on X.
Costa appeared to agree with that assessment, replying: “You have a strong point here.”
Fighters back potential Paulo Costa vs Khalil Rountree match-up
Other voices in the sport have also weighed in on Costa’s next move.
Speaking on the Deep Waters show, Dustin Poirier suggested a fight with Khalil Rountree Jr. would be an entertaining match-up.
“I don’t know if it makes sense, but If I was a matchmaker, I think Paulo and Khalil Rountree is a fun fight. That’s a banger. Not for the title. Not yet,” Poirier said.
Jorge Masvidal strongly echoed that view, supporting the idea for the light heavyweight division.
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