Paulo Costa attempts to provoke Azamat Murzakanov, who only smiles in return

Paulo Costa made an attempt to rattle Azamat Murzakanov during a pre-fight face-off ahead of UFC 327, but the Russian contender met every provocation with nothing more than a smile. The two are set to collide on April 11, and Costa's attempt at psychological warfare appeared to have little visible effect on his opponent.

Costa, nicknamed "The Eraser," enters the bout carrying a 16-4 record and sits ranked thirteenth in the middleweight division. The 35-year-old Brazilian out of Team Borracha is one of the more aggressive strikers in the sport, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate. Standing six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach, he brings heavy orthodox pressure and has demonstrated throughout his career that he prefers to keep fights standing.

Murzakanov, who fights under the nickname "The Professional," holds a 16-1 record and is ranked twelfth in the light heavyweight division. The 37-year-old southpaw from Russia, representing K Dojo Warrior Tribe, stands five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach. He lands 4.7 significant strikes per minute at a 57 percent accuracy rate and adds a modest takedown threat at 0.55 per fifteen minutes. His composed demeanor during the face-off appeared entirely in line with his nickname.

Why it matters

• Costa is moving up to light heavyweight, adding a divisional wrinkle to an already intriguing stylistic clash
• Murzakanov's refusal to engage emotionally suggests a disciplined camp approach heading into fight week
• Both men rely primarily on striking, setting up a potentially explosive stand-up battle at UFC 327
• A win for either fighter carries meaningful rankings implications in a crowded light heavyweight top fifteen