Joe Rogan Wants Paulo Costa at 205lbs Permanently After Carlos Ulberg Injury

UFC commentator and podcaster Joe Rogan talks about the importance of Paulo Costa staying at light heavyweight.

Joe Rogan Wants Paulo Costa at 205lbs Permanently After Carlos Ulberg Injury

Joe Rogan talks about Paulo Costa's importance in the light heavyweight division (via Yahoo Sports)

In Short
  • Carlos Ulberg suffered an ACL injury during UFC 327, raising doubts about his return to the light heavyweight division.
  • Paulo Costa debuted at light heavyweight, impressively knocking out Azamat Murzakanov and showing improved performance without the weight cut.
  • Joe Rogan suggested Costa should remain at light heavyweight permanently and could become the interim champion during Ulberg's recovery.

After UFC 327, the UFC light heavyweight division lost momentum following Carlos Ulberg’s unusual title win over Jiri Prochazka. Ulberg captured the vacant belt but suffered an injury before securing the knockout finish. On the same card, Paulo Costa debuted at light heavyweight and added intrigue to the division. Joe Rogan recently weighed in on Costa’s presence and its impact on the division’s future.

Ulberg suffered a painful ACL injury during his title fight against Jiri Prochazka, occurring in the closing moments of round 1 before he secured a knockout win. The damage was later confirmed to require surgery, raising uncertainty over his return timeline. Costa impressed in the co-main event by knocking out formerly undefeated Azamat Murzakanov with a vicious head kick in the third round.

In the fight, Costa, who had not been in the best form in recent UFC outings, appeared noticeably more comfortable at 205 pounds. Competing without the severe weight cut required at middleweight, he looked physically stronger and more stable throughout the bout. According to Rogan, this combination of comfort and power makes Costa a strong candidate to fill the competitive void left by Ulberg’s injury.

If I were in his corner, I would say, ‘Dude, never go back to middleweight – you’re a light heavyweight champion.’ While Carlos Ulberg is out for the year, Paulo Costa could become the interim light heavyweight champion.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

These comments from Rogan come just days after Costa revealed his desire to move up to heavyweight in pursuit of a potential fight against Josh Hokit at the White House event. Costa has been chasing Hokit since UFC 327, motivated by the matchup and the Performance of the Night honors that went to Hokit. He also voiced his disappointment after the event, making his feelings clear to UFC CEO Dana White.

Rogan has long been a supporter of Costa, often highlighting his physical attributes and fighting style during broadcasts. He has previously noted Costa’s decline after his loss to Israel Adesanya at UFC 253. Rogan also referenced the Brazilian contender’s bout against Yoel Romero, pointing out how he was able to outstrike a decorated veteran. He has additionally praised Costa’s vascularity and genetics as rare traits.

The interim championship idea raised by Joe Rogan does not seem far-fetched, as medical reports suggest Ulberg has suffered bone bruising and tibia damage alongside his ACL injury. Although he has undergone surgery, his recovery is expected to be lengthy, potentially stalling the division. Paulo Costa’s presence and recent form may help keep the light heavyweight division active during Ulberg’s absence.

Joe Rogan weighs in on the UFC 328 middleweight title fight

UFC 328 is set to be headlined by a middleweight title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland, carrying major stakes for both fighters. The matchup has drawn extra attention due to the strong animosity and tension between them. Both have exchanged grievances in the buildup, intensifying the rivalry. Dana White has reportedly increased security plans at the Prudential Center for their clash.

Joe Rogan
Joe Rogan (via Politico)

There has been major discussion about how the fight may play out, with many believing Chimaev’s wrestling could overwhelm Strickland as it has most opponents. Borz’s grappling pressure is viewed as a key factor in controlling the fight’s pace. Others argue that Strickland’s unorthodox striking could cause problems if he keeps it standing. This stylistic clash has led Joe Rogan to analyze the UFC 328 main event.

Khamzat’s timing and his takedowns are insane. We’re going to know very soon, early in the fight, whether Strickland can avoid the takedown or whether Khamzat can avoid getting hit.

Joe Rogan via PowerfulJRE

Joe Rogan has consistently praised Khamzat Chimaev’s dominance, especially his pressure and grappling control. He has compared Chimaev’s ability to that of an Olympic-level wrestler at peak form. Rogan often notes how quickly the Chechen middleweight champion disrupts opponents’ rhythm once he establishes control. However, it remains to be seen who will win on May 10th at the Prudential Center.

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