Paulo Costa has recently gone under the knife just weeks before UFC 294.
Costa (14-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) meets Khamzat Chimaev (12-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) in the Oct. 21 co-main event at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
“Borrachinha” posted a picture of his right elbow, which appears to have been infected. In an Instagram post Monday morning, the former title challenger revealed that he had surgery three weeks ago, but doesn’t appear fazed ahead of his big fight against Chimaev.
“How strong are u? U never really know until you get tested by fire 🔥 of life.
I did surgery 3 weeks ago , 10 seams size . But I know how tough I’m and continues improving and overcoming myself. It doesn’t stop me, still doing my things sparrings and everything. I’m so blessing , Gods gives me exceptional condition, and surrounded my by great peoples 🙌🧃🧬”
In his most recent octagon appearance, Costa snapped a two-fight losing skid with a unanimous decision win over former champion Luke Rockhold at UFC 278 in August 2022. He will look to hand unbeaten Chimaev his first-career loss and spoil his return to 185 pounds.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 294.