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The fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Nikita Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi could redefine Paulo Costa's career
UFC

Published 80 days ago

The fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Nikita Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi could redefine Paulo Costa's career

The fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Nikita Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 25, 2026 could not only crown a new interim champion but also pave the way for Paulo Costa’s next challenge as he seeks a triumphant return.

To remember:

  • The Ankalaev vs. Guskov fight at UFC Abu Dhabi 2026 will determine Paulo Costa’s next opponent.
  • An interim title will be on the line for Borrachinha at this event.
  • Paulo Costa needs a win to revive his career after a string of lackluster performances.

On July 25, 2026, UFC Abu Dhabi is set to write a new chapter in its history with a marquee bout between Magomed Ankalaev and Nikita Guskov. Beyond the quest for an interim title for Borrachinha, this clash could very well redefine the ambitions of Paulo Costa, who is currently seeking a return to form.


For Paulo Costa, this fight is more than just an opportunity—it’s a turning point. After inconsistent performances in recent years, the Brazilian needs a win to prove he deserves another shot at the top. If Ankalaev or Guskov emerges victorious, the winner could be handed a fight against Paulo Costa, offering him a royal road to a world title.


An Interim Title on the Line for Borrachinha

On his end, Borrachinha (Paulo Costa) has the chance to claim an interim title against a top-tier opponent. A win here would solidify his standing in the middleweight division and grant him undeniable legitimacy to challenge the reigning champion. But beware: Guskov, known for his explosive striking, won’t go down without a fight.


This bout thus promises to be a springboard for multiple careers. For Paulo Costa, it’s a chance to bounce back. For Ankalaev or Guskov, it’s an opportunity to establish themselves as the next contenders to the throne. And for the fans, it’s a guarantee of a high-level spectacle at UFC Abu Dhabi, where the stakes have never been higher.

Whoever wins, UFC Abu Dhabi 2026 promises to be a landmark event with major implications for the middleweight division. For Paulo Costa, it’s now or never.
Editor's Opinion
By Nakmen
Damn, this thing smells like Jurassic Park before the park opens: everyone’s got plans, but no one knows if the predator’s gonna eat the tourist or get eaten by another predator. Paulo Costa right now is our Batman in "I gotta prove I’m not just a guy who got lucky in 2018" mode. Ankalaev vs. Guskov is the fight that could hand him a ticket to the Titanic… but at this point, we don’t know if the ship’s sinking or if it’s just a big iceberg with fans in "let’s see who dies" mode. Guskov, with his striking that hits like an OSS 117 on a mission, isn’t gonna let him slide. Borrachinha needs a win to show he’s not a Mickey Mouse in the division, but right now, it’s like they’re telling him: "You’ve got 3 minutes to save the world, but you haven’t even learned how to use your utility yet." The stakes are high, but honestly, at this point, it’s like a Disney movie promising a happy ending… but we don’t know yet who’s ending up in the castle or who’s ending up in the burning castle. And then there’s Abu Dhabi, always that Star Wars backdrop where people pay big to see if you’re a hero or a loser. Come on, let’s cross our fingers… or buy tickets for the next Fast & Furious in real life.
Article written by SkimAI
Reviewed and completed by Nakmen