Awestruck Joe Rogan Picks Paulo Costa To Become Next UFC Champion

TL;DR

Joe Rogan endorses Paulo Costa as the next UFC light heavyweight champion after his knockout victory over Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327. Costa's win marks a significant comeback, having last fought at 205 pounds in 2021.

Key points

Joe Rogan supports Paulo Costa for UFC light heavyweight champion
Costa won against Azamat Murzakanov by third-round knockout
This was Costa's first fight at 205 pounds since 2021

Paulo CostaAzamat MurzakanovUFC 327

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 11: Paulo Costa of Brazil reacts after a knockout victory against Azamat Murzakanov of Russia in a light heavyweight fight during the UFC 327 event at Kaseya Center on April 11, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC)

Joe Rogan was so impressed with Paulo Costa’s last trip to the Octagon that’s he’s already lobbying for the Brazilian veteran to be UFC’s next light heavyweight champion.

This comes after Costa’s incredible knockout performance against previously undefeated light heavyweight contender, Azamat Murzakanov, at UFC 327 earlier this month. It was a matchup that Costa entered as a betting underdog, but one he eventually won via third-round head kick knockout. It was Costa’s first appearance at 205 pounds since 2021 and the biggest win of his career other than a Fight of the Night win over Yoel Romero in 2019 that earned him a UFC middleweight title shot.

Even President Donald Trump was gushing over Costa cageside following his UFC 327 outing.

Rogan, who was there to call Costa’s victory firsthand, had more praise to offer during a recent episode of his Joe Rogan Experience podcast. According to the long-time UFC color commentator, Costa has what it takes to claim gold at 205 pounds. And following the recent injury to current UFC light heavyweight champion Carlos Ulberg he believes Costa’s next fight should be for the interim strap.

Q&A

What did Joe Rogan say about Paulo Costa's performance at UFC 327?

Joe Rogan expressed his admiration for Paulo Costa's impressive knockout victory, suggesting he should be the next light heavyweight champion.

Who did Paulo Costa defeat at UFC 327 and how?

Paulo Costa defeated Azamat Murzakanov by knockout with a head kick in the third round during UFC 327.

What significance does Paulo Costa's win at UFC 327 hold for his career?

The victory at UFC 327 is considered the biggest win of Paulo Costa's career, marking his return to the light heavyweight division after a long absence.