Outside Source
Now a ranked 145-pounder after becoming the first man to stop Dan Ige as a pro, Costa took a long look at the rest of his division. While he currently rides a six-fight win streak, the man known as “The Dalmation” knows he still has some work to do to get to the top of the ladder. The next crack at Alexander Volkanovski’s throne may go to the upcoming victor of Lerone Murphy vs. Movsar Evloev, and after that, it remains to be seen. Costa spoke to Sherdog on Monday after his victory, where he broke down the future of his weight class.
“UFC is looking for exciting fights,” Costa noted. “In the papers, the winner of Evloev and Murphy might get the title shot, but I believe Jean Silva provides much more excitement, as he showed on his last fights, and I think he will cut that line.”
Of all the men in the top 15 at 145 pounds, Costa points to the Fighting Nerd Silva as the man with the tools to beat Volkanovski.
“Diego Lopes doesn’t have heavy hands, he is sharp, but he needs the counter,” Costa analyzed. “Volkanovski felt that and neutralized him by cutting angles. But Jean is different. Besides being a sniper, he has very heavy hands and Volkanovski doesn’t have the same [durability] now. The champion is the favorite, but Jean can decide the fight in a blink [of an eye].”
Costa Wants It All
Currently in the 13th spot on the UFC’s featherweight rankings, Costa will not only be watching Murphy-Evloev closely, but he will be in attendance for the London-centered UFC Fight Night 270 event on March 21.
“I truly hope Evloev and Murphy don’t make me sleep,” joked the Brazilian.
Mere days after receiving a number next to his name, the 29-year-old is eager to face anyone who helps him reach the top of the division. That includes countrymen, as he called out Lopes after knocking Ige out on Saturday.
“I don’t see any reason to fight Patricio ‘Pitbull’ even though we have the same manager. But I would love to face Diego and Jean. Take note. First, I’ll submit Diego, and then I’ll knock out Jean Silva,” Costa declared confidently.
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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