“Francis Has No Chance…” – Despite $4 Million Contract, Paulo Costa’s Retirement Challenge to Francis Ngannou Throws Fans off Guard

Former UFC title challenger Paulo Costa has one of the most entertaining social media presences among fighters. The middleweight star often uses his Twitter account to make outlandish statements and jokes. Recently, the Brazilian powerhouse released the news of his new UFC contract. Following his new and improved deal with the promotion, the 31-year-old has made another outlandish callout. This time he went after a former UFC champion who is two-weight classes above him.

In a recent tweet, Paulo Costa called out ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou. What’s more, Costa called him out to a boxing match, adding that the rule set did not make a difference to him. However, fans had a few different opinions about Costa’s latest shenanigan.

Paulo Costa calls out Francis Ngannou

Paulo Costa last fought at UFC 278 in August 2022. He beat former champion Luke Rockhold in the co-main event. ‘Borrachinha’ has been on the sidelines ever since. Despite serious talks, a fight against Robert Whittaker at UFC 284 in Australia did not materialize owing to his contract situation.

Now, with the help of his girlfriend/manager Tamara Alves, Costa has struck a new deal with the UFC. He also teased a return against Sean Strickland or Khamzat Chimaev. Nevertheless, the quirky Costa had to sneak in another callout to keep the fans entertained.

The Brazilian called out Francis Ngannou, offering to step in as the latter did not have an opponent yet for a boxing match. Costa also stated he was willing to take his gloves off, possibly hinting at BKFC, which has been linked to Ngannou since his UFC exit.

He wrote, “Hey Francis I heard you’re looking for a boxer opponent. If u prefer I can put my gloves off too. It’s up to you big brother.”

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However, fans had a few different suggestions for Costa in the response to his tweet.

Fans react to Costa’s tweet

In the responses, one fan asked Costa to focus on fighters currently signed to the UFC.

Another fan came up with a new and interesting moniker for the middleweight.

Another fan warned him against the consequences, reminding him of the Israel Adesanya fight.

Meanwhile, some fans had jokes about Costa and his ‘secret juice.’

Another fan had the lucrative idea of Costa fighting Chimaev with his gloves off.

All things considered, the #5 ranked Costa is a valuable addition to the roster. One of the more entertaining and fan-favorite fighters, Costa can now focus on fighting as his contract disputes have been resolved.

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Who do you want to see Costa fight next? And what do you think about his callout? Let us know in the comments.