Guskov vs Costa being targeted for UFC 328, says Azizyan

A middleweight matchup between Bogdan Guskov and Paulo Costa is being targeted for UFC 328 on May 9, according to a report from Gor Azizyan, who is closely connected to the fighter management scene. Azizyan expressed hope that the bout can be finalized, though no official announcement has been made and the fight should be treated as unconfirmed at this stage.

Costa, known as "The Eraser," enters as one of the most recognizable names in the middleweight division. The 35-year-old Brazilian carries a 16-4-0 record and sits at number 13 in the divisional rankings. A former title challenger, he fights out of an orthodox stance and stands six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach. His striking output is among the most aggressive in the division, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate.

Guskov, nicknamed "Czarevitch," holds an 18-3-1 record and is currently ranked tenth at light heavyweight, making this a notable step down in weight class for the 33-year-old from Uzbekistan. He stands six-foot-three with a 76-inch reach and trains out of GOR MMA. An orthodox striker, he averages 4.17 significant strikes per minute at 55 percent accuracy and adds a submission threat with 1.1 attempts per 15 minutes.

Why it matters

• Guskov would be competing at middleweight, stepping down from his ranked light heavyweight position, raising the stakes around his divisional intentions
• A win over the well-known Costa would significantly elevate Guskov's profile in either weight class
• The size contrast is notable, with Guskov holding meaningful height and reach advantages over Costa
• Costa needs a marquee victory to climb back toward the top of a competitive middleweight ranking