Paulo Costa responds to Azamat Murzakanov's comments about 'secret juice'

Paulo Costa has fired back at Azamat Murzakanov after the Russian light heavyweight made cryptic remarks about a "secret juice" ahead of their UFC 327 matchup this Saturday.

Murzakanov sparked the controversy by telling media that "very soon we will show what the secret is" and that opponents would "soon find out" what fighters from Russia have. The comments landed with particular force given Costa's well-documented history of publicly accusing opponents of using performance-enhancing drugs, and the Brazilian made clear the remarks are getting under his skin.

Costa, 35, carries a 16-4 record and is ranked 13th in the middleweight division. Fighting out of Brazil under Team Borracha, the orthodox striker is one of the more dangerous punchers on the UFC roster, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate. He is a pure stand-up fighter, averaging virtually no submission attempts.

Murzakanov, 37, competes at light heavyweight and enters the bout at 16-1, ranked 12th in his division. The Russian southpaw trains with K Dojo Warrior Tribe and brings a similarly aggressive striking style, connecting at 4.7 significant strikes per minute with a 57 percent accuracy rate. Standing five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach, he gives up a notable size disadvantage against Costa.

Why it matters

• Murzakanov's "secret juice" comments directly provoke Costa's sensitivity around PED accusations, adding a personal edge to the buildup.
• A win could push either fighter further up their respective divisional ladders heading into the second half of 2026.
• Both men are primarily strikers with near-zero submission activity, setting up a likely stand-and-trade affair with high knockout potential.