The matchup is notable for Costa’s swift turnaround from his last outing. He went to the scorecards in a losing effort against former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 298 in February, and now, four months later, he’ll be back in the Octagon again. It’s a stark contrast from the last few years, which have seen him fight just once per calendar year from 2018 to 2022, with no fights at all in 2023.
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“I’m feeling great,” he said, as he explained his decision to make a swift turnaround.
“After that fight against Whittaker – I think it was a great fight – I was a long time without showing up in the cage, but after the fight I felt good, no injuries, you know? I didn’t hurt, so why not?
“Why not keep the progress, and not lose all the work that I did for that fight?
“We had a great match (booked) – first it was Cannonier, then it was changed for Strickland. So, why not? I’m feeling good, in shape. This is a great opportunity.”