Dana White responds to Paulo Costas UFC release request

Dana White isn’t happy with Paulo Costa.

The Brazilian has been inactive in recent years, fighting just once since mid-to-late July 2025. Frustrated with his lack of usage, Costa turned to Eddie Hearn to seek help. Believing the boxing promoter has his best interests at heart, Costa signed under his management in hopes of a better future in the UFC and beyond. The 35-year-old is in a good position. On the back of his two-fight win streak, he just has one fight remaining on his contract with the UFC and would likely be a huge player in free agency. The MMA landscape is better than it has ever been, with real money to be made for big-name fighters. Costa considers himself to be in that bracket. In hopes of getting the best deal for himself, ‘Borrachinha’ has given the UFC an ultimatum.

Essentially, Paulo Costa is asking the promotion to either offer him a three-round fight, pay him more money, or release him from his contract. Unhappy with the demands, Dana White has hit back at Costa. White insisted the light heavyweight is being offered fights; he’s just turning them down.

“He’s been offered fights and turned them down,” White said. “We don’t just say f*** Paulo Costa, and you’re not going to get a fight, and no, we’re not going to pay you, and no, we’re not going to do this. Guys get offered three fights a year regularly. Even guys that aren’t fighting.”

To prove his point, Dana White highlighted Tom Aspinall’s situation. Sidelined due to an injury and unsure when a return window may present itself, Aspinall was forced to vacate his UFC heavyweight title.

And even while inactive, Aspinall is still being offered fights by the UFC.

“Tom Aspinall’s eyes are messed up. He’s getting offered fights,” White added. “You think Paulo Costa isn’t getting offered fights?”