Gor Azizyan has confirmed that matchmakers are attempting to organize a bout between Bogdan Guskov and Paulo Costa for UFC 328. Azizyan expressed hope that the fight can be successfully arranged. No further details about timing or location were provided in the post. The confirmation comes directly from a source involved in the matchmaking process, though the fight remains unfinalized at this stage.
A middleweight-versus-light-heavyweight clash may be taking shape for UFC 328, scheduled for May 9, 2026. Gor Azizyan, a figure connected to the matchmaking process, has confirmed that organizers are working to put together a fight between Bogdan Guskov and Paulo Costa. Azizyan expressed hope the bout can be finalized, though no official announcement has been made and the matchup remains unconfirmed at this stage.
Paulo Costa, nicknamed "The Eraser," brings a 16-4-0 record into the equation. The 35-year-old Brazilian currently sits ranked thirteenth in the middleweight division and trains out of Team Borracha. Standing six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach, Costa is one of the sport's most prolific pressure fighters, landing an exceptional 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate.
Bogdan Guskov, known as "Czarevitch," competes at light heavyweight, where the 33-year-old from Uzbekistan holds the tenth-ranked spot with an 18-3-1 record. He trains under the GOR MMA banner and carries a notable size advantage, standing six-foot-three with a 76-inch reach, or 193 centimeters. Guskov averages 4.17 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy and contributes a submission threat, averaging 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- The bout would cross divisional lines, with Costa a career middleweight and Guskov established at light heavyweight, raising questions about the catchweight or division in play.
- A win could push either man meaningfully up the rankings in what would be a high-profile assignment on a numbered card.
- Stylistically, Costa's elite striking volume meets a larger opponent in Guskov who carries his own submission danger, creating an intriguing contrast on the feet and on the ground.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
