Melquizael Costa backs himself to do what Max Holloway couldn’t at UFC Vegas 117

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Melquizael Costa isn’t just chasing a win this weekend – he wants to break new ground.

The Brazilian featherweight steps into his first UFC main event against Arnold Allen, who’s not just well-known for his skills but also for being incredibly tough to put away.

Despite that, Costa is confident he’ll be the one to finally do it. The main card will stream live on UFC Fight Pass starting at 8 pm ET / 5 pm PT.

Melquizael Costa backs himself to knock out Arnold Allen

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Melquizael Costa believes that a standout performance at UFC Vegas 117 will put him in line for a title shot.

The 29-year-old thinks that stopping Arnold Allen, something no one has done before, will lead naturally to a final eliminator for the 145lb title.

“I believe I’m going to knock Allen out, and that’s going to catch everyone off guard because nobody has ever knocked him out,” Costa said during an exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow’s Filipe Guedes.

“I’ll be the first to do that. I’ve already knocked out two guys who’d never been stopped before, so I believe I’ll do the same to Allen.

“After that, there won’t be much left to say because my next fight, if it’s not straight for the belt, will likely be against Lerone Murphy.”

“That’s a fight that would put me right on the doorstep of the title. He’s ranked third, so it makes sense. But in terms of entertainment value, there are other names out there too.”

UFC Vegas 117’s timing works out well against Ronda Rousey’s comeback

Melquizael Costa’s first UFC main event comes at the same time as Ronda Rousey’s return to the sport.