Paulo Costa defeated Yoel Romero in a thrilling back-and-forth fight in their middleweight bout at UFC 241.
The Brazilian phenom remains undefeated and improves his professional record to 13-0 (5-0 UFC) as he eyes up a UFC title shot against the winner of Robert Whittaker vs. Israel Adesanya.
Romero and Costa both recorded knockdowns in the first round. Costa dropped Romero before being floored himself in a stunning opening round.
Advert
In round two, the Cuban wrestler landed a takedown with the 28-year-old budding star connecting vicious leg-kicks to the body.
Costa landed a staggering 43 body shots to Romero's seven.
They continued to exchange shots in round three in an entertaining fight with Costa getting the judges nod.
OFFICIAL RESULT: Costa def. Romero by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).
Topics: UFC News, Yoel Romero, UFC 241, Fight News, UFC, MMA