Paulo Costa Snubs Chimaev Rematch, Aims for Middleweight Crown

Brazilian fighter Paulo Costa set to face Robert Whittaker at UFC 298 has expressed disinterest in a rematch with Khamzat Chimaev citing Chimaev’s lack of victories over top-middleweight contenders. Costa withdrew from a previous fight with Chimaev due to an elbow infection. Despite personal animosity, Costa is focused on winning the middleweight title.

He criticizes Chimaev for not defeating a ranked opponent in the division and asserts that after defeating Whittaker, he will be next in line for a title shot. Costa anticipates a challenging fight against Whittaker but sees it as a crucial step toward reclaiming a top position in the division.