REPORT: Paulo Costa pulls out of UFC 291, new opponent lined up for Ikram Aliskerov

UFC middleweight star Paulo Costa has reportedly pulled out of his fight against Ikram Aliskerov at UFC 291. According to sources based in Aliskerov’s camp, ‘Borrachinha’ has withdrawn from the matchup less than a fortnight before the event in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

According to a report by @judobetter995 via @SpinninBackfist on Twitter, Aliskerov will still compete at UFC 291, albeit against a different opponent. It seems Georgian middleweight contender Roman Dolidze has replaced Costa and will be stepping up on a 12-day notice for the high-altitude fight at The Delta Center in Salt Lake City.  

Iterating that nothing is official as yet, @judobetter995 wrote:

“My inside source just told me that Costa vs. Ikram is not going to happen, and UFC is looking to book… Dolidze Vs Aliskerov… Nothing official, but info comes from Ikram’s camp, so I’m sure it’s true.” 

If the news is indeed accurate, it would be Paulo Costa’s second canceled fight this year. He was scheduled to face Robert Whittaker in February, but the Brazilian disputed the announcement, and the fight never materialized. 

Costa last beat Luke Rockhold at UFC 278 via unanimous decision. The win stopped a two-fight losing skid against Israel Adesanya and Marvin Vettori. 

Paulo Costa hints at accepting a super fight against Khamzat Chimaev after reported UFC 291 pullout

Paulo Costa recently sent fans into a frenzy by hinting at a potential matchup against grappling sensation Khamzat Chimaev. 

MMA-based Twitter handle @MMAPauli recently claimed Paulo Costa pulled out of UFC 291 to fight Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294. While the tweet sent MMA fans into a frenzy, the Brazilian added fuel to the confusion with a cryptic message. He wrote a one-word comment under the tweet, stating:

“Smart.” 

Costa and Chimaev aren’t on good terms. The two men were involved in an altercation at the UFC PI last year.  In the following months, ‘Borz’ and ‘Borrachinha’ traded insults online and in interviews, fueling speculation of a future fight.

While fans are undoubtedly excited about the prospect of witnessing Paulo Costa fight Khamzat Chimaev, the Brazilian is known to be a notorious troll online. It remains to be seen if his comments meant anything real.