Paulo Costa offers ‘fair’ option in UFC ultimatum; Magomed Ankalaev responds

Paulo Costa has issued an ultimatum to the UFC regarding the final fight of his current contract. Costa, who is on a two-fight winning streak after defeating Roman Kopylov and Azamat Murzakanov, requested a three-round fight at light heavyweight as agreed in his contract. He presented UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell with three options: a three-round fight against any opponent, a five-round fight with an increased purse, or an immediate release from his contract.

Former champion Magomed Ankalaev responded to Costa's social media post, volunteering to fight him. Ankalaev, who recently defeated Bogdan Guskov, suggested the matchup would be a low-risk opportunity for Costa to enter free agency. Meanwhile, the top of the light heavyweight division remains uncertain as champion Carlos Ulberg is sidelined with a knee injury until 2027.