A poll is asking fans to vote on where Paulo Costa should compete in his next fight, with options for middleweight (84kg/185lbs) or light heavyweight (93kg/205lbs). Costa has indicated plans to compete in both weight classes going forward. The post invites readers to suggest potential opponents in the comments rather than offering specific matchup options. Fans are asked to use thumbs up for middleweight or heart emoji for light heavyweight to indicate their preference.
A fan poll circulating online is asking MMA supporters to weigh in on Paulo Costa's next move, specifically whether the Brazilian striker should remain at middleweight or make a jump to light heavyweight.
Costa, nicknamed "The Eraser," carries a 16-4 record and is currently ranked thirteenth in the middleweight division. The 35-year-old from Brazil trains out of Team Borracha and has indicated he intends to compete at both 185 pounds and 205 pounds going forward. Standing six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach, he presents a physically imposing frame that could translate well to the heavier weight class.
His striking numbers underline why any opponent at either weight would need to account for his offensive output. Costa lands 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate, making him one of the more efficient pressure fighters the middleweight division has seen in recent years. His grappling remains a limited part of his game, averaging just 0.32 takedowns per 15 minutes and recording no submission attempts per 15 minutes.
The poll, which invites fans to use a thumbs-up reaction for middleweight and a heart reaction for light heavyweight, stops short of naming specific opponents, instead asking followers to suggest potential matchups in the comments.
Why it matters
- Costa's divisional rank of thirteenth at middleweight leaves him outside the title picture, adding weight to the case for a fresh start at 205 pounds.
- A move to light heavyweight could open up high-profile matchups against a stacked roster of ranked contenders.
- His aggressive striking style could make him an immediate attraction at either weight, regardless of where the fan vote lands.
