Paulo Costa delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career at UFC 327, knocking out the previously unbeaten Azamat Murzakanov with a decisive head kick in Miami on Saturday night. The victory snapped Murzakanov’s impressive 16-fight unbeaten streak in emphatic fashion.
Following the bout, Costa shared a brief exchange with former U.S. President Donald Trump inside the Kaseya Center. The interaction quickly drew attention after Trump publicly praised the Brazilian on Truth Social.
Writing on the platform, Trump said, “Congratulations to Paulo Costa on a great UFC fight last night in Miami. He will absolutely be a future Champion. It was great talking to him outside the ring after his big victory last night in Miami!”
Costa later responded on social media, writing, “Thank you very much Mr president @potus @donaldjtrumpjr @realdonaldtrump for the high praise words about me and the great conversation. Was a huge pleasure meeting and fight in front of your audience. GOD BLESS YOU.”
🗣️ Donald Trump posted about Paulo Costa on Truth Social:
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) April 13, 2026
“Congratulations to Paulo Costa on a Great UFC Fight last night in Miami. He will absolutely be a future Champion. It was great talking to him outside the ring after his Big Victory last night in Miami!” pic.twitter.com/eC2qlg7SVK
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The victory further cemented Costa as a serious contender at 205lbs despite failing to capture the middleweight title when he fell to Israel Adesanya at UFC 253 back in 2020. Now moving to light heavyweight, he previously used the moment to call out middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, reigniting their long-standing rivalry.
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounding Carlos Ulberg due to a knee injury could open the door for Costa to position himself for a potential interim title opportunity, especially after dispatching the division’s No. 6-ranked fighter.
Donald Trump’s Cageside Appearance And Comments to Paulo Costa Draw Mixed Attention
Donald Trump attended UFC 327 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, while accompanied by UFC CEO Dana White and family members, including Ivanka Trump and Tiffany Trump. Also present were Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vanilla Ice, Dan Bongino, and Joe Rogan.
Following his win in the co-main event, Paulo Costa jumped out of the cage to greet Trump. Cameras captured part of their exchange. “Thank you for doing what you do,” Costa said.
Trump responded with praise, saying, “You’re a beautiful guy. A great fighter,” before adding, “You could be a model, you look so good! You’re too good looking to be a fighter. You are some fighter. Thank you, man,” while shaking Costa’s hand.
The Brazilian later confirmed the remarks at the post-fight press conference. “Yes, that part was true,” he said. “Thank you, Mr. Trump.”
However, Trump was criticized by some on social media for attending the event as peace talks between the United States and Iran were reportedly falling apart in Islamabad, Pakistan, while others supported his appearance. During the event, Trump also had a brief exchange with Rogan, who has previously voiced opposition to the Iran war.
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The event drew widespread attention for both its results and the presence of high-profile figures, with UFC 327 taking place amid ongoing international developments.
