and Magomed Anchor Ship.
Together
Ultimate Fighting Championship light heavyweight champion
Carlos Ulberg Costa and Ankalaev, sidelined due to injury, are looking for a title opportunity. Pereira believes his fellow Brazilian can beat Ankalaev under pressure.
Alex Pereira says Paulo Costa needs to push his pace to beat Magomed Ankalaev
“Poatan” said Costa needs to push his pace to beat Ankalaev. If Costa hesitates, he expects a more equal contest.
“I think ‘Borrachinha’ (will win),” Pereira Laerte told Viana. “He’s more aggressive. I think ‘Borrachinha’ would do better. If he stays there whether he wants to or not (hesitates), it’s going to be a pretty close fight. You don’t know who’s going to take it. But if he pushes his game, his rhythm, I think he’ll take it.”
Costa (16-4) and Ankalaev (21-2-1, 1 NC) have traded criticism on social media, with Ankalaev accusing the Brazilian of turning down multiple offers to fight him. Costa has also publicly disputed the terms offered by the UFC for his next bout, saying he wants to finish the one contract he has left.
