UFC Fight Night: Costa Edges Murzakanov In Thrilling Main Event

UFC Fight Night: Costa Edges Murzakanov In Thrilling Main Event...

Paulo Costa secured a hard-fought split decision victory over Azamat Murzakanov in Saturday's UFC Fight Night main event. The middleweight bout headlined the promotion's return to the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, delivering a back-and-forth battle that left fans divided.

Judges scored the contest 48-47, 47-48, 48-47 in favor of Costa (14-3), who rebounded from his September loss to Robert Whittaker. Murzakanov (13-1) suffered his first professional defeat in a fight many observers believed could have gone either way.

The matchup trended nationally as fans debated the controversial decision on social media. UFC President Dana White acknowledged the divisive scoring during the post-fight press conference, calling it "one of those fights where nobody would've complained either way."

Costa's leg kicks and body work appeared to sway two judges, while Murzakanov's volume striking and late-round surges impressed the dissenting scorer. CompuBox stats showed Murzakanov landing more significant strikes (112-98), though Costa scored the bout's only knockdown in round three.

The Brazilian contender called for a title shot during his post-fight interview, though White suggested he'll likely need another win first. The event marked Costa's first victory since 2021, potentially revitalizing his career after recent setbacks.

Murzakanov, a Dagestani fighter training out of Sanford MMA in Florida, saw his eight-fight winning streak snapped. His team plans to appeal the decision, citing statistical advantages in several categories.

The UFC returns next week with a stacked pay-per-view card featuring three title fights, keeping momentum from this weekend's action-packed event.