“He fights everybody the same,” Former double division UFC champion doubts Paulo Costa’s strategy in epic showdown against Khamzat Chimaev

Former UFC Champion Henry Cejudo criticizes Paulo Costa's fighting approach before his fight at UFC 294 against Khamzat Chimaev.

“He fights everybody the same,” Former double division UFC champion doubts Paulo Costa’s strategy in epic showdown against Khamzat Chimaev

Henry Cejudo points out Paulo Costa's flaws ahead of Showdown against Khamzat Chimaev ( Images via Imago )

Paulo Costa will fight Khamzat Chimaev in a highly anticipated showdown at UFC 294. Former UFC champion Henry Cejudo has conducted a thorough analysis of Costa’s fighting style, uncovering a notable weakness.

Cejudo acknowledged Paulo Costa‘s undeniable talent. However, he did not shy away from critiquing Costa’s fight strategies. Cejudo expressed his concerns, stating, “For tactics, he fights everybody the same,” Cejudo said. “I think that’s the biggest thing that I have with him”. Cejudo’s insight suggests that Costa’s opponents often know what to expect from him, given his somewhat predictable fighting style. Furthermore, Cejudo highlighted Costa’s reliance on his striking prowess and power, occasionally mixing in takedowns as part of his arsenal.

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When reminiscing about Costa’s previous bouts, Cejudo struggled to recall instances where Costa adapted his approach to suit different opponents. According to Cejudo, Paulo seems to stick to a tried-and-true formula. He underscored the need for improvement in terms of fight tactics. Costa will return to the Octagon after over a year of absence. He last fought against Luke Rockhold last year and won via a decision. Now, Costa has prepared to make his comeback against Khamzat Chimaev who is undefeated up till now. The fight will take place this October in Abu Dhabi.

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The upcoming bout with Chimaev has been regarded as Costa’s most challenging test. Nonetheless, Henry Cejudo‘s observations point out that Costa has the potential for improvement, particularly regarding tactical adaptability. Costa is determined to address these concerns as he attempts to hand Chimaev his first professional loss in the co-main event of this month’s pay-per-view. A win over Chimaev would definitely boost Paulo Costa’s chances of returning to the middleweight title picture.

Related: “Felt threatened by this handsome” – Paulo Costa’s hilarious jab at Khamzat Chimaev over ‘harassment’ text to girlfriend

Paulo Costa underwent surgery weeks before the upcoming showdown against Khamzat Chimaev

Paulo Costa will lock horns with Khamzat Chimaev this October. However, “Borrachinha” took to Instagram to reveal a surprising detail just a few tweaks ahead of the fight. Costa had recently undergone surgery. The procedure has left his right elbow visibly affected. However, Costa does not seem rattled by the setback.

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Paulo Costa had surgery ahead of the upcoming fight against Khamzat Chimaev ( Image via Imago )

On his X account, Costa shared images of his surgery. The pictures showcased ten noticeable stitches. He accompanied the images with words of unwavering determination and revealed the details of the procedure. He revealed that he is resilient in the face of this new development. Costa wrote that the setback has not hindered him all and that he was continually improving and surpassing his limits. Meanwhile, Costa revealed that he was still going through his training routines and thanked God for granting him exceptional strength.

Paulo Costa and Khamzat Chimaev’s showdown will headline the co-main event of UFC 264. The fight will take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Costa’s unwavering spirit, despite the recent surgery, adds an intriguing layer of anticipation to this already highly-anticipated showdown.

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