Azamat Murzakanov has jokingly commented on what needs to be done to ensure his upcoming fight with Paulo Costa actually takes place. The light heavyweight suggested that doors should be locked, implying concerns about Costa potentially withdrawing from the bout. The comment appears to be a playful jab at Costa's history or reputation regarding fight commitments. Murzakanov and Costa are scheduled to face each other at UFC 327 on April 11. The post includes a poll asking fans whether this is a good measure or if Costa will indeed make it to the cage.
Azamat Murzakanov took a lighthearted shot at his upcoming opponent Paulo Costa on Wednesday, suggesting that the venue doors should be locked to guarantee Costa actually makes it to the cage when the two meet at UFC 327 on April 11.
The comment, shared publicly by Murzakanov, was a playful dig at Costa's reputation around fight commitments. A fan poll accompanied the post, asking whether locking the doors is a necessary precaution or whether Costa will show up without issue.
Murzakanov, nicknamed "The Professional," carries a 16-1-0 record into the bout and is ranked 12th in the light heavyweight division. The 37-year-old southpaw from Russia fights out of K Dojo Warrior Tribe and stands five-foot-ten with a 71-inch reach. He lands 4.7 significant strikes per minute at a 57 percent accuracy rate, and also adds a modest takedown threat at 0.55 attempts per 15 minutes.
Costa, known as "The Eraser," is a 35-year-old Brazilian ranked 13th at middleweight with a 16-4-0 professional record. He fights out of Team Borracha in an orthodox stance and stands six-foot-one with a 72-inch reach. Costa is a high-output striker, averaging 6.26 significant strikes per minute at 58 percent accuracy, making him one of the more dangerous punchers in his weight class.
Why it matters
- Murzakanov is a light heavyweight stepping in against a middleweight, adding an unusual cross-divisional element to the matchup.
- Both fighters sit just outside the top ten in their respective divisions, giving the winner a strong case for a rankings boost.
- The striking styles on paper set up a compelling stand-up contest, with Costa's volume and Murzakanov's accuracy making for an intriguing comparison at range.
