Heading into the fight, Costa intensified tensions during the pre-fight press conference, unleashing verbal attacks and controversial remarks toward his opponent. He labeled Murzakanov “fat” during a heated rant that quickly gained traction online, going viral across MMA communities.

“I hate these f***king Russians. This is the second one in a row that I’m gonna put on my record, and the third one maybe Chimaev. I want him next after beating this fat guy,” said Paulo Costa via UFC 327 press conference.

Costa, in his last bout, went against Roman Kopylov and won the fight via unanimous decision. The victory helped him get back from a two-fight losing streak, and now the fighter is eager to carry that momentum.

Kopylov was Russian, Murzakanov is also Russian, and Costa is also targeting the third Russian, Khamzat Chimaev, who is the middleweight champion. Costa and Chimaev have a huge history and could result in a huge title fight.

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UFC CEO talks about Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland mega title fight

Khamzat Chimaev is currently scheduled to fight the former middleweight champion, Sean Strickland. The fight will take place in the main event of UFC 328 inside the Prudential Centre in New Jersey.

The hype around this bout is massive due to the long-lasting bad blood between both fighters, which has crossed several boundaries. In a recent interview, UFC CEO Dana White talked about this fight and the security threat that both fighters bring to the event.

“The amount of f**king security [and police] we’re gonna need in New Jersey for those two,” said Dana White via Adin Ross stream.

UFC has seen several grudge fights between two fighters, the iconic Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov being the top incident. Despite that, fans are eager to see the trash-talking between Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev that can take place at UFC 328.

READ MORE: Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov: Preview and Prediction

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The post Paulo Costa Blasts Azamat Murzakanov, Sets Sights on Showdown with Khamzat Chimaev in Bold Title Push first appeared on Sidekick Boxing.

Kompet meets Attachai Kelasport in the strawweight Muay Thai main event of ONE Friday Fights 150 on April 10, live from Bangkok, Thailand.

The 26-year-old two-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion has been candid about the pressure he has been feeling.

“It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster lately with the wins and losses, and I’ll admit I feel a little pressure,” Kompet said. “I want to build some real momentum. I used to be laser-focused on a ONE main roster contract, but now I feel like I’ve drifted quite a bit from that goal. I’m stoked to be back and prove I can handle the small gloves. A lot of people think this style isn’t for me, but I’m here to show them they’re wrong.”

His trainers have been pressing him on the finer details. He knows where the gaps have been and what needs fixing before the next fight gets away from him.

“My trainers have been drilling me on being more decisive. I have the weapons, I just need to find the right openings,” he said. “I really want to develop more of a killer instinct. My movement and timing are fine, but I’m missing that finishing touch. I need to be much more clinical when that ‘golden minute’ arrives.”

Standing across from him is a 23-year-old Thai Army staff sergeant who made a composed promotional debut against Poye Adsanpatong at ONE Friday Fights 66, winning by unanimous decision in his first outing with small gloves. Attachai Kelasport has spent the time since balancing military duties with training, and arrives at this matchup with a clear read on what more is required.

“My debut win against Poye was my first time in small gloves. I was nervous and probably should’ve been more aggressive, but I won because I was more precise. It made me hungry for more,” Attachai said. “I’ve learned a lot from my first win. I need to be more consistent and aggressive. I want to prove to everyone that I’m an exciting fighter who belongs on this stage.”

He carries respect for Kompet’s credentials into the ring, but he has no intention of letting them settle the outcome.

“When I heard I was fighting Kompetch, I was so excited. It’s an honour to fight someone like him. He’s been a star since I first arrived in Bangkok. He’s got the accolades and six belts, but in three-round fights with small gloves, anything can happen,” Attachai said. “I’ve studied him, and I think he leaves himself open sometimes. If I see a gap, I’m letting my hands go. I’m not worried about his experience — I’m fast, I’m fresh, and I’m ready to trade.”

READ MORE: Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov: Preview and Prediction

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“I was shocked and stoked at the same time to finally get a shot for gold,” Rungrawee said. “I’ve been waiting for this chance for a long time, and now it’s finally happening.”

The Thai challenger puts that dream on the line at The Inner Circle this Friday, April 10, live in Asia primetime from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium.

The path to this moment required patience. After a loss to George “G-Unit” Jarvis, Rungrawee stepped back, took on a coaching role with Thailand’s National Pencak Silat Team at the SEA Games, and embraced life as a full-time father.

When he returned to competition last August against Youssef Assouik at ONE Fight Night 34, he came back sharper, executing a composed game plan built on distance management and timing to earn a unanimous decision win.

“I’m happy with how I fought Youssef because we did our homework and had a solid game plan,” he said. “He’s a big, tall guy, so trading shots up close wasn’t an option. I had to stay outside and control the range. Everything went according to plan.”

Now he faces the biggest challenge of his career in Eersel, a 10-time ONE World Champion renowned for his heavy hands, ironclad durability, and relentless pace across five rounds. Rungrawee has studied the Dutchman closely and identified exactly where he believes the opening lies.

“Regian’s strengths are definitely his hands and flying knee,” he said. “As for weaknesses, I noticed that he doesn’t check kicks very often, especially to the legs. My biggest edge is my low to high kicking game. I believe my kicks are powerful enough to do some real damage.”

His confidence on that point is absolute.

“I’m 100 percent confident my kick has more power,” Rungrawee said. “My legs are much bigger than his. His legs are skinny, so the power isn’t even on the same level. But hey, we’ll see for sure when we settle it in the ring.”

There is more driving him than tactics. His two children will be at ringside on Friday night, as they are for every fight, and the weight of what this title would mean for his family runs through everything he has put into this camp.

“My kids are my biggest motivation,” he said. “Winning that belt would change everything. It would put my name on the global map. But more importantly, it means I can provide a better life for my two kids and my family.”

READ MORE: Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov: Preview and Prediction

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Fury will return to action after a massive 16-month retirement and is planning to bounce back from his previous loss. On the other hand, for Makhmudov, it’s the biggest fight of his career, and let’s take a look at the prediction.

Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury is a former heavyweight champion who recently suffered back-to-back defeats against Oleksandr Usyk, losing his grip on the division’s top spot. The two high-stakes clashes saw Fury fall short on both occasions, marking a rare setback in his otherwise dominant career.

However, despite those losses, Fury remains one of the most dangerous and experienced heavyweights in boxing. The British star is determined to regroup, make adjustments, and return stronger as he eyes another run at the title.

Arslanbek Makhmudov

Arslanbek Makhmudov is a dangerous rising contender in the heavyweight division who now finds himself in a defining moment against Tyson Fury. The matchup presents a massive opportunity for Makhmudov to announce himself on the global stage, as a win over a former champion would instantly elevate his standing. A victory would propel Makhmudov into title contention, while a loss could stall his momentum and raise questions about his readiness for the elite level.

How to watch:

To watch the heavyweight showdown between Tyson Fury and Arslanbek Makhmudov in the UK, the event begins at 7:00 PM BST. The main event ring walks are expected around 10:30 PM BST at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. British fans can stream the entire fight live on Netflix, as the bout is included with a standard subscription rather than traditional pay-per-view.

In the U.S., the card starts at 2:00 PM ET, with Fury and Makhmudov likely making their ring walks at approximately 5:30 PM ET, depending on the undercard. American viewers can also watch the full event live on Netflix, marking a major shift as boxing continues moving toward global streaming platforms.

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Tale of the Tape

Tyson Fury vs. Arslanbek Makhmudov: Final Prediction

Tyson Fury thrives on control, using elite footwork, constant feints, and high fight IQ to dictate pace and neutralize opponents over long stretches. He blends sharp jabs, clinch work, and defensive awareness, making him extremely effective at breaking rhythm while steadily accumulating points as rounds progress.

On the contrary, Arslanbek Makhmudov relies on raw power, forward pressure, and heavy hands to overwhelm opponents early. He prefers to impose physicality, cut off the ring, and land damaging shots, but can struggle against movement and technical fighters who deny him clean exchanges.

If Fury can maintain distance, control the tempo with his jab, and frustrate Makhmudov’s aggression, he should gradually take over the fight. With his experience, adaptability, and ability to manage range, Fury can neutralize the threat and outbox him across the rounds.

Final Prediction: Tyson Fury via Unanimous Decision

READ MORE: Darren Till Shocks Fans with Surprise Exit from Misfits Boxing, Signs with Conor McGregor’s BKFC

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Prochazka returns with his unpredictable style and finishing ability, aiming to reclaim dominance while reestablishing himself firmly within the division. Meanwhile, Ulberg enters with strong momentum and confidence, looking to secure the biggest win of his career.

Jiri Prochazka

Jiri Prochazka is a former UFC light heavyweight champion who had to vacate his title due to injury. Following that, he has fought Alex Pereira twice for the undisputed title and lost on two different occasions.

However, since then, the Czech fighter has bounced back and is currently on an impressive two-fight win streak. Prochazka has beaten Jamahal Hill and Khalil Rountree back-to-back and plans to continue this momentum.

Carlos Ulberg

Carlos Ulberg has an impressive record of 9-1 in UFC since joining the promotion back in 2021. The fighter has defeated big names such as Jan Blachowicz and Dominick Reyes and is currently eyeing the light heavyweight belt.

A win against Prochazka can certainly push Ulberg to get a fight, potentially against Magomev Anklaev. It will be interesting to see these two fighters going at each other this weekend.

How to watch: UFC 327: Jiri Prochazka vs. Carlos Ulberg

To watch UFC 327 in the UK, early prelims begin at 10:00 PM GMT, followed by prelims at 12:00 AM GMT, with the main card starting at 2:00 AM GMT. British fans can watch the event live via TNT Sports and Discovery+, with streaming options available depending on their subscription.

In the U.S., early prelims start at 5:00 PM ET, followed by prelims at 7:00 PM ET, with the main card kicking off at 9:00 PM ET on Saturday night. American viewers can stream the full fight card live on Paramount+, with select bouts also broadcast on CBS.

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Tale of the Tape

Jiri Prochazka vs. Carlos Ulberg: Final Prediction

Jiri Prochazka thrives in chaos, using unorthodox movement, relentless pressure, and explosive striking to overwhelm opponents and force damaging exchanges. He blends spinning attacks, sudden bursts, and constant forward momentum, making him extremely dangerous as fights progress and opponents begin to fade under pressure.

On the contrary, Carlos Ulberg relies on clean technique, sharp kickboxing, and measured footwork to control distance and pick opponents apart from range. He prefers calculated engagements, utilizing his speed and precision, but can be tested when forced into prolonged, high-intensity exchanges.

If Prochazka can close the distance, disrupt Ulberg’s rhythm, and drag him into chaotic firefights, he should gradually break him down over time. With his durability, pressure, and unpredictable offense, Prochazka can find openings as the fight deepens and capitalize decisively.

Final Prediction: Jiri Prochazka via TKO in Round 4

READ MORE: Darren Till Shocks Fans with Surprise Exit from Misfits Boxing, Signs with Conor McGregor’s BKFC

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It will be Costa’s debut fight in the light heavyweight division as the former middleweight looks to break into the new division. Ahead of the fight, let’s look at which among these fighters have better chance of winning.

Azamat Murzakanov

Azamat Murzakanov made his UFC debut after performing at Dana White‘s Contender Series in 2021. Since then, the fighter has fought six fights and remained undefeated, and has several TKO finishes.

The Russian fighter currently ranks #6 in the division and believes a few more wins can push him to the title picture. The fighter has already engaged in some verbal exchanges with Costa, which has certainly ignited the rivalry further.

Paulo Costa

Paulo Costa has been in the UFC for a long time now and has already fought for the title once, but has remained inconsistent. Away from the Octagon, the Brazilian has certainly managed to build a huge fan base due to his hilarious and unhinged personality.

In his last fight, Costa beat Roman Kopylov to bounce back from his two-fight losing streak. However, it seems like the veteran now wants to try his luck fighting bigger opponents and rising through the light heavyweight rankings.

How to watch: UFC 327: Azamat Murzakanov vs. Paulo Costa

To watch UFC 327 in the UK, early prelims begin at 10:00 PM GMT, followed by prelims at 12:00 AM GMT, with the main card starting at 2:00 AM GMT. British fans can watch the event live via TNT Sports and Discovery+, with streaming options available depending on their subscription.

In the U.S., early prelims start at 5:00 PM ET, followed by prelims at 7:00 PM ET, with the main card kicking off at 9:00 PM ET on Saturday night. American viewers can stream the full fight card live on Paramount+, with select bouts also broadcast on CBS.

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Tale of the Tape

Azamat Murzakanov vs. Paulo Costa: Final Prediction

Azamat Murzakanov thrives on calculated pressure, powerful combinations, and disciplined striking to steadily break opponents. He maintains composure, mixes attacks to the head and body effectively, and controls range to limit dangerous exchanges.

On the contrary, Paulo Costa relies on explosive offense, pressing forward with heavy hooks and aggressive combinations to overwhelm opponents. He looks to dictate pace immediately, but can become predictable when drawn into slower, more tactical striking battles.

If Murzakanov manages distance, avoids prolonged firefights, and consistently lands cleaner strikes, he should control rounds and neutralize Costa’s aggression. With time, his discipline and output could secure a clear advantage on the judges’ scorecards.

Final Prediction: Azamat Murzakanov via Unanimous Decision.

READ MORE: Darren Till Shocks Fans with Surprise Exit from Misfits Boxing, Signs with Conor McGregor’s BKFC

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Till won the fight via TKO and went on to win two more fights against Darren Stewart and then Luke Rockhold. Many fans thought that the fighter had finally found his sport and were hyped about his future.

However, in a shocking turn of events, Till announced that he’s leaving Misfits Boxing on good terms. Following that, Darren Till has signed a multi-fight deal with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.

“I am very pleased to be signing with the BKFC. It’s an amazing promotion! F*** everyone on this roster, I’m coming to be the face of violence. No one can beat me,” said Darren Till.

Darren Till is officially set to make his highly anticipated debut under the BKFC banner later this month. The former UFC contender will compete at BKFC 90, scheduled for May 30 inside Birmingham, England’s Utilita Arena in front of fans.

Till is expected to fight in the middleweight division, competing at 185 pounds as he begins a new chapter in combat sports. An opponent has not yet been announced, but anticipation continues building as fans eagerly await his transition into bare-knuckle competition.

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Darren Till vs. Mike Perry finally take place?

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship has grown rapidly over the last two years, especially after Conor McGregor became a co-founder and ambassador. McGregor actively promoted the organisation through events, media appearances, and social platforms, significantly boosting visibility and attracting mainstream combat sports audiences.

Among BKFC’s biggest stars is Mike Perry, who previously had a heated rivalry with Darren Till during their time in MMA. Perry is now scheduled to face Nate Diaz, leaving fans curious whether a future clash with Till will finally happen.

Also Read: Khamzat Chimaev Fires Back At Fans “I Make Millions” Amid Inactivity Critisism Ahead Of UFC 328

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A pair of all-Japanese MMA bouts have been added to ONE SAMURAI 1, the inaugural event in ONE Championship’s new monthly series in Japan. The headline addition pits divisional stalwart Tatsumitsu “The Sweeper” Wada against Pancrase Champion Seiichiro Ito in a flyweight clash. The second bout sees unbeaten debutants Kanata Nagai and Atsuya Kanbe collide at bantamweight.

Wada has been a fixture in ONE’s flyweight MMA division since 2018, accumulating 26 career wins and sharing the circle with the likes of former ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson and former World Title challenger Danny “The King” Kingad.

The 37-year-old’s grappling-heavy, grinding style has made him a persistent and suffocating opponent at 135 pounds for the better part of a decade. Back-to-back losses to top contenders Sanzhar “Tornado” Zakirov and Avazbek “Ninzya” Kholmirzaev have sharpened his focus, and he returns to action on home soil with redemption driving every session.

Ito arrives as a genuine threat to derail those plans. The 27-year-old carries an 18-4 record into his promotional debut, with eight submission victories as part of a 79 percent finish rate that speaks to his ability to end fights across multiple disciplines.

His striking is crisp, his grappling explosive, and the Shooto Gym Tokyo representative arrives with the kind of balanced, well-rounded game capable of exposing any weakness in a veteran’s armour.

The second addition is equally compelling. Nagai enters ONE Championship with a perfect 9-0 record built on the Japanese regional circuit, his sharp boxing and precise bodywork earning him this global invitation.

Kanbe, 26, brings an 8-1 mark and an instinctive finishing ability underpinned by a sound grappling base. Both men are making their promotional debuts, and both understand that a statement performance on April 29 could accelerate everything that comes next.

READ MORE: Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua – Does This Long-Awaited Clash Still Excite Boxing Fans?

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A first-round knockout of Eko Roni Saputra at ONE Fight Night 37 changed the conversation, and Nakatani arrives at ONE Fight Night 42: Mann vs. Dzhabrailov on Prime Video this Friday, April 10, with the kind of momentum that only a statement performance can generate. His opponent is fellow American Joshua “Flyin Hawaiian” Perreira, and they meet in a flyweight MMA clash broadcasting live in U.S. primetime from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium.

The Pasadena-based contender reflected on what changed when he finally walked in healthy.

“I had no flaws. I walked out unscathed. I feel like if I do what I’m supposed to do and can continue to be healthy, and I go into this next fight and treat it just the way I did the last one, then I can easily get another first-round finish. If not, a second,” Nakatani said.

That self-belief is not manufactured for fight week. Before signing with ONE Championship in late 2024, Nakatani had built an 8-1 record on the North American circuit with six stoppages inside two rounds. The level was always there. The Saputra knockout simply gave the wider world a reference point.

Even Nakatani admitted the ease of it caught him off guard.

“I almost surprised myself. I know what I’m capable of, but it was like one of these and one of these, and he went down. I was like, ‘Whoa!’ Everything just played out perfectly,” he said.

Perreira enters the bout carrying his own compelling story. The Hawaiian came in 5-0, but a serious knee injury sustained against Banma Duoji in his promotional debut halted everything and required surgery and months of rehabilitation. Friday night marks his return.

Nakatani respects what Perreira brings but sees the gap clearly.

“I just feel like my skill set and my level of competition have been a little bit harder. He’s tough. He’s strong. He’s athletic. He’s well-rounded. But with my pressure, my speed, and all of my attributes, I feel very confident in this fight,” he said.

The immediate target is Perreira. The longer view stretches further. Nakatani’s early losses to reigning ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya Wakamatsu and Jeremy Miado have never left him, and he wants both rematches on his terms.

“He’s finishing everybody, but he didn’t finish me. I was not healthy, so I’m looking forward to getting that rematch one day,” he said of Wakamatsu.

The path is clear, the hunger is real, and the Californian’s closing message leaves no ambiguity.

“I’m not scared of anybody in this world, so I’m ready to just go in there, give it my all, and continue to climb the ranks,” Nakatani said.

READ MORE: Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua – Does This Long-Awaited Clash Still Excite Boxing Fans?

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The post Gilbert Nakatani Targets Joshua Perreira As Flyweight MMA Statement Tour Continues first appeared on Sidekick Boxing.

Despite the dangerous opponent, Fury remains the fan favourite and appears confident while discussing future blockbuster fights beyond this matchup. One of the biggest names Fury has mentioned is Anthony Joshua, a long-awaited clash that fans have demanded for years.

In an interview, Fury emphasized the significance of fighting Joshua and highlighted the enormous pay-per-view potential still untapped. “It’s been a massive rivalry across the pond over in England here. It’s been a massive rivalry for over ten years. The British public are still waiting, they still want it desperately. Even if we had a 200,000 seat stadium, we would sell out ten times. That’s how big it is over here,” said Tyson Fury via DAZN Boxing.

A victory against Makhmudov could set the stage for a mega fight, potentially becoming one of boxing’s most lucrative events ever. According to Fury, this fight can take place by the end of 2026, raising excitement among boxing fans.

“I do think I could beat him in anytime. God willing, everything goes fine on Saturday night, and that’s the fight we are looking to make next,” Tyson Fury continued.

Negotiations for this fight repeatedly collapsed due to contractual disputes, promotional differences, and timing issues, frustrating fans hoping for an undisputed heavyweight clash.

Following Joshua’s recent near-death accident, Fury was extremely supportive and has stopped trash-talking AJ. However, fans are still excited to see these two UK superstars fight inside the squared ring.

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Tyson Fury shared concerns about his age following the recent Derek Chisora vs. Deontay Wilder fight

The fight between Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder ended with Wilder securing victory after a slow and underwhelming heavyweight contest. Wilder won the bout via late stoppage, capitalizing on Chisora’s fatigue, but neither fighter displayed their usual explosiveness or sharpness.

Fans criticized both veterans for looking sluggish and hesitant, suggesting their age and accumulated damage were finally impacting their performances. Tyson Fury discussed this in detail and expressed concerns about his own age.

“It was hard to watch for me. It was heart breaking, and I have never seen two men slide as much as them two in my life. And I’m thinking, am I f***ing next? Is this me?,” said Tyson Fury via Inside Ring Show.

Fury hilariously mentioned that he has told his teammates to shoot him if he is 10 percent as bad as Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder. It would be interesting to see whether the ‘Gypsy King’ can bring his old skill set after his last 16-month gap.

Also Read: Khamzat Chimaev Fires Back At Fans “I Make Millions” Amid Inactivity Critisism Ahead Of UFC 328

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