Paulo Costa apologizes to Russian fans, clarifies comments were aimed at Khamzat Chimaev

Paulo Costa issued an apology to Russian fans following controversial statements made at a press conference. Costa explained that when he said negative things about Russians, he was specifically referring to Khamzat Chimaev, whom he called a "Chechen gourmet." He acknowledged that his words were misunderstood and emphasized that he actually likes Russian people and knows some living in Germany. Costa noted that Chimaev is more Chechen than Russian but they are from the same country. He mentioned that he has now defeated two Russian fighters and hopes to face Chimaev next to make it three. The apology attempts to clarify his intent while maintaining his rivalry with Chimaev specifically.