Paulo Costa issues ultimatum to UFC over contract

Mixed Martial Arts fighter Paulo Costa has issued a public ultimatum to UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell regarding his remaining contractual obligations. Following a third-round TKO victory over Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327, Costa stated he has only one fight remaining on his current deal.

Costa presented three specific options to the promotion via social media: providing a three-round fight against any opponent on the light heavyweight roster as originally agreed; providing a five-round fight within six weeks with a corresponding purse increase; or releasing him from his contract immediately.

Costa previously indicated in interviews that he has sought a release from the promotion, but his requests were denied. He suggested the UFC may be delaying his final bout to leverage his star power for a longer-term contract extension.