“I have too much respect”: Why Paulo Costa chose Eddie Hearn as his UFC future reaches a major crossroads

Paulo Costa appears to be at an important point in his UFC career. The Brazilian fighter has made a significant change outside the cage by signing with Eddie Hearn, while his future inside the UFC remains uncertain. Costa has explained that the decision came from his respect for Hearn and his belief that the experienced fight business figure can help him move forward. The timing makes the move even more interesting. Costa has also revealed that the UFC rejected multiple requests for a release, despite one fight remaining on his contract. Now, his next step could have major importance.Paulo Costa chose Eddie Hearn because he trusts his experience and believes they can build something bigger togetherCosta's decision to work with Eddie Hearn is rooted in professional respect. The Brazilian previously had Tiki Ghosn handling his management, but he has now moved to Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency.Hearn has built a major reputation in boxing and has also increased his involvement in MMA. His growing group of fighters includes UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry.For Costa, Hearn's experience was a major reason behind the decision.“I have too much respect for what he’s doing. He’s a great guy, a great professional. I think we’re going to do great things together. I just need to send back the email. I think everything is set up, and I’m so excited. He handles the business very well. He’s a super important person in the fight business. Not only in MMA, but not only in boxing, but he’s coming to MMA right now. I think this is a great acquisition for the MMA community,” Costa said.The partnership also comes despite the well-known tension between Hearn and UFC president Dana White. Costa, however, does not appear concerned that their disagreement will affect his career.“I don’t think so because I don’t put too much attention on this beef between them both. If they have this bad blood between them, it’s not about me, you know? We’re professionals, guys.”Costa's comments show that he views the relationship as a business decision rather than an attempt to take sides in a larger dispute.Paulo Costa’s push for a UFC release explains why his new partnership matters so much right nowThe timing of Costa's management change becomes clearer when his current UFC situation is considered. Costa says he has asked the promotion for his release several times, including just days before his latest comments. The UFC has rejected those requests and wants him to complete at least one more fight.“We already asked to be released, but they refused,” Costa said. “They said, 'No, we're not going to release you. You need to do one more at least.' Actually, I've been asking for this a couple of times. The most recent was like days ago.”Costa was also frustrated after the UFC did not accept his offer to step in following Valentina Shevchenko's withdrawal from UFC 332. He had been pushing to fight for months and believed he could have helped the Salt Lake City card."I'm sad because I think we could have given a much better fight card going on for the Salt Lake City fans," Costa said. "I don't think fans are so happy, I'm not happy, but it's not about me. I've asked to fight since May. I asked them to fight in June, July, August. They told me to wait."Costa last fought at UFC 327 in April, stopping Azamat Murzakanov with a head kick. He now wants a major opportunity at light heavyweight and is also seeking a new UFC contract.That leaves Costa facing an important decision. His next fight could satisfy his remaining UFC obligation while also setting up the next stage of his career. With Hearn now involved, the business side of that future will be closely watched.For Costa, the partnership is not simply about changing managers. It comes at a moment when he is trying to find a clearer path forward, both inside and outside the UFC.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.