Paulo Costa apologizes to Russian fans for press conference comments

Paulo Costa issued an apology to Russian fans for comments he made at a press conference where he said negative things about Russians. Costa clarified that his animosity is specifically directed at Khamzat Chimaev, whom he referred to as Chechen rather than Russian, though acknowledging they're from the same country. He stated he has Russian friends in Germany and respects Russian people in general. Costa noted that he has now defeated two Russian fighters and hopes to face Chimaev for a third victory over a Russian opponent. The apology appears aimed at damage control while maintaining his rivalry with Chimaev.