Paulo Costa's team has released footage showing him struggling significantly to reach 93 kilograms during weight cutting. This is particularly notable because Costa previously competed at 84 kilograms, making the current weight cut an 9 kg increase from his usual fighting weight. Costa has also made inflammatory comments about Russian fighters, stating he hates them and that Murzakanov will be the second consecutive Russian on his record. He further called out Khamzat Chimaev as a potential third Russian opponent after dealing with "this fat guy," presumably referring to Murzakanov. The post also mentions that Josh Hokit broke character after filming, apologizing to his team for his antics.
