After an absence from the UFC for nearly a year, Paulo Costa was preparing to make his comeback by facing Ikram Aliskerov. However, Costa unexpectedly withdrew from the fight for reasons that have not been disclosed.
Adding to the intrigue, Costa hinted at the possibility of a potential matchup against Khamzat Chimaev, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what could unfold in the near future.
Paulo Costa ignites speculations of Khamzat Chimaev showdown at UFC 294
With an impressive record of 14 wins and 2 losses, including 11 knockout victories, the Brazilian fighter is gearing up for his next high-level bout in the UFC. However, it seems that his anticipated return won’t be against Ikram as originally planned.
Instead, there is a strong possibility that Costa’s opponent could be none other than Khamzat Chimaev, who is also eager to make a comeback after a significant break. The Chechen fighter, has his sights set on returning to the octagon in Abu Dhabi.
Paulo Costa fight is off because he’s fighting Khamzat Chimaev in Abu Dhabi. #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/q5boGC7AZm
— Pauli.♤ (@MMAPauli) July 17, 2023
Just a few days ago, Khamzat expressed his desire to take on Kamaru Usman in UFC 294, and Usman, known as “The Nigerian Nightmare,” has reciprocated the interest in becoming Chimaev’s opponent.
Now, with Costa pulling out of the fight against Aliskerov at the last minute, the situation has taken a twist, leaving room for anything to happen and anyone to potentially book a fight against the highly sought-after UFC fighter, Khamzat Chimaev.
😅 Paulo Costa wasn't lying about not competing at UFC 291: pic.twitter.com/prUmLAXkpb
— The Fight Bubble (@thefightbubble) July 17, 2023
Costa’s Ikram Aliskerov bout at UFC 291 cancelled
UFC 291 is scheduled to take place on July 29 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The main event will feature an intense clash between Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier, who will be competing for the prestigious BMF championship belt.
Among the exciting lineup of fights on the main card, a bout was scheduled between ‘The Eraser’ and the talented up-and-coming middleweight prospect.
Ikram Aliskerov vs Paulo Costa is OFF according to Ikram’s camp
the new fight that is in the works is
Ikram Aliskerov vs Roman Dolidzeper @judobetter995 pic.twitter.com/iMUgCHN1LC
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) July 17, 2023
Unfortunately, it has been reported by multiple sources that ‘The Eraser’ has pulled out of the event, mere days before the scheduled date.
As a result, Aliskerov, who was originally set to face Costa, is still on the card. Aliskerov has quickly secured Roman Dolidze as his replacement opponent for the upcoming fight.
