Was UFC Fighter Paulo Costa a bodybuilder?

Publish date: 2024-06-18

By Fan Arch February 16, 2024 05:39

Photo by ZUFFA LLC VIA GETTY IMAGES

Paulo Costa, also known as "Borrachinha," is a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Middleweight division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His journey from being a bodybuilder to becoming a prominent UFC fighter is a testament to his determination and hard work.

Early Career and The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil

Paulo Costa made his professional MMA debut in February 2012 in Brazil and went on to amass an impressive record of 8–0 with 7 knockouts and 1 submission over the next five years. He was selected to be a fighter on The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3 and despite facing initial setbacks, he persevered and earned his UFC contract through commitment and hard work.

Transition from Bodybuilding to Martial Arts

According to ESPN, Paulo Costa's sole focus was bodybuilding for a considerable period, as indicated in his file during the selection for The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3. However, his brother, Carlos Costa, encouraged him to return to learning martial arts, particularly Jiu-Jitsu, when Paulo was 16 years old. This led to his participation in martial arts competitions, marking the beginning of his journey in the realm of professional mixed martial arts.

Notable UFC Fights and Achievements

Paulo Costa's UFC journey has been marked by significant milestones. He made his promotional debut in March 2017 and secured impressive victories, earning Performance of the Night awards. His notable wins include triumphs over fighters like Oluwale Bamgbose, Johny Hendricks, and Uriah Hall. As of August 1, 2023, he holds the sixth position in the UFC middleweight rankings.

Paulo Costa's Future in UFC

Paulo Costa's relentless pursuit of greatness has brought him to the forefront of the UFC middleweight division. With a goal to become a champion, his upcoming fight against Robert Whittaker on February 17, 2024, is anticipated to be a significant test for him. His dedication and transformation from a bodybuilder to a UFC contender exemplify his resilience and commitment to his craft.

Paulo Costa's evolution from a bodybuilder to a distinguished UFC middleweight contender is a testament to his unwavering determination and adaptability. His journey serves as an inspiring example of how sheer dedication and hard work can pave the way for success in the competitive realm of mixed martial arts.