Israel Adesanya is lacing up for a highly anticipated return to the UFC, with a rematch against Paulo Costa in the works for UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on 25 October.
The Nigerian-born New Zealander, known as ‘The Last Stylebender’, stopped Costa with a stunning knockout in their first bout back in September 2020. Now, nearly five years later, the two are expected to run it back in what promises to be a must-see middleweight clash.
While the fight is not yet officially confirmed by UFC President Dana White, sources close to the promotion indicate the match-up is being finalised. If signed, it’s likely to feature on the main card—possibly as the co-main event alongside Tom Aspinall’s heavyweight title scrap with Ciryl Gane.
Adesanya will almost certainly enter as the favourite, given his dominant second-round finish last time out. But the former champ hasn’t had his hand raised since reclaiming the middleweight strap against Alex Pereira at UFC 287. He’s currently on a three-fight skid and will be eager to get back to winning ways.
Costa, meanwhile, is coming off a strong unanimous decision win over Roman Kopylov in July and will be looking to even the score.
Despite his recent dip in form, Adesanya remains one of the most decorated fighters in the division. During his reign as champion, he notched seven title defences with wins over the likes of Robert Whittaker (twice), Yoel Romero, and all-time great Anderson Silva.
Currently ranked number four in the division, a convincing win could put Adesanya right back in the title conversation—especially with new champ Khamzat Chimaev now holding the belt.
Fans can expect official confirmation from the UFC in the coming weeks ahead of the October fight night at Etihad Arena.
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