Paulo Costa's Fierce Intentions

At the UFC 318 Media Day, Paulo Costa made headlines with his bold and aggressive statements ahead of his co-main event fight against Roman Kopylov. The Brazilian fighter expressed a strong desire to inflict serious damage on his opponent, emphasizing his intent to 'hurt him badly.' This fiery rhetoric, captured during the press interactions, sets the tone for a highly anticipated middleweight clash at the Smoothie King Center on July 19. Costa's comments reflect his determination to make a statement in the octagon, showcasing his mindset as he prepares for this critical matchup.

Roman Kopylov's Response and Perspective

Roman Kopylov, facing off against Costa, also took the stage during the UFC 318 Media Day to share his thoughts. While not as overtly aggressive as his opponent, Kopylov acknowledged Costa's status as a middleweight elite, despite the latter's recent string of losses. His respect for Costa's abilities was evident, but he remained confident in his own skills, particularly highlighting his knockout prowess as seen in past fights. Kopylov's calm demeanor contrasted sharply with Costa's intensity, hinting at a strategic approach to counter the Brazilian's power.

Setting the Stage for UFC 318 Co-Main Event

The co-main event of UFC 318 has garnered significant attention, especially with the dynamic between these two fighters becoming a focal point during the media interactions. The press conference provided a platform for both athletes to outline their game plans and mentalities heading into the fight. With the event just days away, the tension is palpable as fans and analysts alike speculate on how Costa's aggression will match up against Kopylov's technical striking and composure. This bout promises to be a thrilling encounter on a card headlined by Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier.

Insights from the Press Questions

Throughout the media session, both fighters fielded a range of questions from the press, delving into their preparations and expectations. Around the midway point of the video, Costa elaborated on his training camp, underscoring his focus on physical dominance. Later on, Kopylov discussed his strategy to exploit any openings in Costa's defense, aiming for another highlight-reel knockout to add to his record. These insights provide a glimpse into the tactical nuances each fighter brings to the table, heightening anticipation for their showdown in New Orleans.