Paulo Costa knocks out Azamat Murzakanov in third round at UFC 327

Paulo Costa delivered a third-round knockout of Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327 on April 11, 2026, in a performance that showcased sharp tactical execution from the Brazilian striker.

Costa, nicknamed "The Eraser," came into the fight having moved up from middleweight, his home division where he holds a 16-4-0 record and sits ranked thirteenth. The 35-year-old from Brazil trains out of Team Borracha and fights out of an orthodox stance, standing six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach. He is one of the sport's most prolific strikers, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate — numbers that place him among the elite in output and efficiency.

Murzakanov, known as "The Professional," entered the contest with a 16-1-0 record and a top-twelve ranking at light heavyweight. The 37-year-old Russian southpaw, standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, trains with K Dojo Warrior Tribe and had built his reputation as a durable, hard-hitting presence in the division. He lands 4.7 significant strikes per minute at 57 percent accuracy, making him a credible offensive threat in his own right.

Despite those credentials, Murzakanov's approach proved predictable on the night. Costa identified and exploited those tactical limitations, implementing a game plan that neutralized the Russian's offense before finding the finish in the third round.

Why it matters

• Costa's knockout victory at light heavyweight raises questions about a potential divisional move and opens ranking conversations at 205 pounds.
• Murzakanov's first loss since turning professional damages his top-fifteen standing and may require a reset before contender-level bouts resume.
• The style matchup exposed how a high-volume, accurate striker like Costa can dismantle opponents who rely on a repetitive tactical blueprint.