Undefeated Nigerian-born UFC middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya, has told his opponent Paulo Costa in clear terms he is out for business when he defends his title against the Brazillian at the Yas Fight Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Sunday, The punch reported.
The 31-year-old is billed for another mega-money title defence against No.2 title contender and knockout specialist, Costa, who is unbeaten in his 13 career MMA fights.
Adesanya is also yet to taste defeat in 19 professional MMA bouts and will be gunning for his 20th win against the South American.
Both fighters have been involved in a war of words, with Adesanya promising to deflate Costa during the fight.
Costa on the other hand described Adesanya as “skinny”, saying the middleweight champion would be no match for him.
“I know Costa is weak from cutting weight. He looks dry, the sun is affecting him. Yeah, he’s trying to keep it together. If I grab your neck, trust me, I’m never going to give you back,” Adesanya said at the pre-fight press conference.
“I’m feeling dark for this fight. I’ve been focused for this fight I feel like Jet Li unleashed myself on him.”
But Costa said despite his weight loss, he felt good ahead of the bout and ready to dent the 100 per cent record of the Nigerian.
“I feel great. I have been in the process of cutting weight. Isreal is always weak.
“I think he knows my potential and how dangerous I am. Before I became a striker, I was a grabbler and I was good at it,” Costa replied Adesanya.