Exclusive: Paulo Costa on Recovery from Elbow Procedures, Beef with ‘Gourmet Chechen’ Khamzat Chimaev

Still on the mend from multiple procedures on his right elbow, Paulo Costa talked about his ongoing recovery and when fans can expect to see him back in the gym, and more importantly, in the Octagon against a top contender.

Talking exclusively with Sherdog Brazilian correspondent Marcelo Alonso, “Borrachinha” predicted an early 2024 return to action.

“If I didn't have this problem in my elbow, I think the Gourmet Chechen wouldn't reach the third round. He could have won the first one, but I would [have knocked] him out in the second,” declared Costa.

Although his focus is still Chimaev, the Brazilian pledged that if the UFC moved forward with plans to give Chimaev a title shot against Sean Strickland, he will be ready to face Dricus Du Plessis, Robert Whittaker or Jared Cannonier.

"I think that me and Chimaev is the fight the fans want to see, but if [the] UFC decides to [give him] a title shot I will be ready to face any of those top-ranked guys…”