Paulo Costa says UFC is ‘lost’ without Dana White more involved

Paulo Costa has criticized the UFC's decision-making process, claiming the promotion is "lost" without Dana White's more active involvement in matchmaking. With one fight remaining on his contract, the Brazilian expressed frustration over slow booking timelines, saying he reached out in June about July or August fights but received no clear response.

Costa, a former light heavyweight title challenger, believes the UFC is making poor strategic choices out of fear and poor timing. He argued that accepting lower pay and fighting for an interim title would be a mistake, noting that some UFC champions earn less than he does. When asked about conversations with promoter Eddie Hearn, Costa confirmed they had discussed management representation.

Turning his attention to the light heavyweight title picture, Costa questioned the logic behind rumored interim title talks involving Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree—both coming off losses. He pitched himself alongside former champion Magomed Ankalaev and unbeaten contender Navajo Stirling as more deserving options, all riding recent victories. Costa's criticism reflects broader frustration among fighters over booking clarity and what he views as mismanagement of meaningful matchups in the division.