Paulo Costa apologizes to Russian fans, clarifies animosity is toward Chimaev

Paulo Costa issued an apology to Russian fans following controversial remarks he made at a press conference. He clarified that his negative comments were directed specifically at Khamzat Chimaev, whom he referred to as Chechen rather than broadly targeting all Russians. Costa explained that he has Russian friends in Germany and respects Russian people. He acknowledged his mistake in how he expressed himself and said he regrets the way his words came across. Costa also mentioned he has now defeated two Russian fighters and hopes for a third opportunity against Chimaev.