Former UFC middleweight title challenger Paulo Costa is gearing up for a pivotal showdown against Sean Strickland at UFC 302. After a recent loss to Robert Whittaker, Costa is determined to rectify his shortcomings and secure a victory against Strickland. Let’s delve into Costa’s game plan and what changes he’s making to ensure success in this highly anticipated matchup.
Paulo Costa’s Assessment of His Shortcomings
In a recent interview, Costa acknowledged that he needed to address specific areas in his game. While he’s known for his explosive striking and knockout power, he realized that relying solely on big, damaging strikes wasn’t enough. Against Strickland, he aims to be more well-rounded and strategic.
Paulo Costa plans to increase his activity inside the Octagon. Rather than waiting for the perfect moment to land a devastating blow, he intends to stay busy throughout the fight. This means more combinations, better footwork, and a focus on maintaining a high pace. By doing so, he hopes to keep Strickland guessing and prevent him from settling into a rhythm.
Paulo Costa also recognizes the importance of defense. While he’s aggressive, he’s aware that he needs to avoid taking unnecessary damage. Strickland is a skilled striker, and Costa aims to tighten up his defense to minimize the impact of incoming shots. This includes better head movement, improved blocking, and effective counters.
Paulo Costa plans to rectify his shortcomings in the upcoming fight with Sean Strickland 💪#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/muXt9fyb8P
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) April 20, 2024