Murzakanov favored over Costa in career-defining UFC 327 bout

Azamat Murzakanov faces Paulo Costa at UFC 327 in what is described as the biggest fight of both men's careers. For Murzakanov, a victory over Costa represents a ticket to the upper echelon both athletically and in terms of media profile. For Costa, the fight is a chance to prove to UFC he still has competitive fire beyond endless losses and social media memes. The oddsmakers have installed Murzakanov as a slight favorite at 1.5 to 2.5. The analysis suggests this will be a kickboxing battle where the bigger man could dominate the bodybuilder, potentially with a finish.