Ali Abdelaziz pushes for Magomed Ankalaev vs. Paulo Costa match
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 11:40 PM
Last updated Aug 6, 2026
Ali Abdelaziz has stated that a matchup between Magomed Ankalaev and Paulo Costa is necessary for the light heavyweight division. Ankalaev recently finished Bogdan Guskov at UFC Fight Night 282 but faced criticism from Costa regarding his performance. Despite Costa's prior comments about Ankalaev, Abdelaziz believes that both fighters are well-matched contenders. The UFC has reportedly attempted to arrange this fight on three occasions. Costa is coming off a victory over Azamat Murzakanov, further heightening interest in potential bouts at 205 pounds.
- •Ankalaev holds a record of 21-2-1 in MMA.
- •Costa has a recent TKO victory over Murzakanov.
- •Ankalaev's recent fight ended with a dominant finish.
- •Abdelaziz suggests the fight should be for an interim title.
- •The UFC has attempted to schedule this matchup multiple times.
- 11:40 PMYahoo Sports — Ali Abdelaziz: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Paulo Costa 'needs to happen'
"Ali Abdelaziz sees Magomed Ankalaev vs. Paulo Costa as the perfect No. 1 contender bout.
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