Paulo Costa says he enjoys fighting Russian opponents

Paulo Costa expressed his preference for fighting Russian competitors ahead of his UFC 327 bout with Azamat Murzakanov. Costa most recently defeated Roman Kopylov, another Russian fighter. The Brazilian was also previously scheduled to face Ikram Aliskerov and Khamzat Chimaev, though neither of those bouts materialized. Costa's comments highlight his track record and interest in matchups against fighters from Russia. Details about why he specifically enjoys these matchups are limited in the statement.