Paulo Costa blasts UFC brass for 'clearly trying to manipulate' vulnerable fighters: 'People are afraid to speak'

UFC light heavyweight Paulo Costa has publicly criticized UFC leadership, accusing them of deliberately manipulating vulnerable fighters and creating a culture of fear where athletes are afraid to speak out. Costa, who defeated Azamat Murzakanov in April, has been struggling to secure the final fight on his UFC contract since that victory. The remarks were published on July 14, 2026, and reflect ongoing tensions between the fighter and UFC management over his contractual situation.