Dana White fires back at Paulo Costa over UFC fight dispute

UFC President Dana White has countered Paulo Costa's frustrations over fight offers, asserting that the light heavyweight contender has repeatedly turned down matchups rather than being denied opportunities by the promotion. During a post-fight press conference at Week 7 of Dana White's Contender Series, White acknowledged Costa's frustration but pushed back against the Brazilian's narrative that he is being stonewalled.

Costa recently criticized UFC executive Hunter Campbell after allegedly receiving a short-notice offer for a five-round bout as the final fight on his contract. The fighter argued that while he is open to accepting a five-rounder, he needs proper compensation and adequate preparation time for a 25-minute bout. He has also repeatedly requested his release from the UFC.

White revealed that Costa has been offered multiple fights—a typical slate for active and inactive fighters alike—but has declined them. "He's been offered fights and turned them down," White said. "We don't just say, 'fuck Paulo Costa,' and 'you're not going to get a fight.' Guys get offered three fights a year regularly, even guys who aren't fighting. Tom Aspinall's eyes are messed up. He's getting offered fights. You think Paulo Costa isn't getting offered fights?"

Costa has previously sought an interim light heavyweight title fight while champion Carlos Ulberg recovers from injury, and has been called out by former champion Magomed Ankalaev. The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between fighter and promotion over contract terms and fight selection.