5 fights for Thiago Santos after UFC Vegas 50 loss

#2. Thiago Santos vs. Paulo Costa

Paulo Costa holds a record of 13-2

Should Thiago Santos be the man to welcome Paulo Costa to the light heavyweight division? He certainly seems to be the leading candidate when everything is considered. Were Costa to win, he would instantly be a player at 205 lbs, while he would also not lose too much stock if he lost to the former title challenger.

Costa is yet to officially compete at light heavyweight but missed weight dramatically in his most recent bout with Marvin Vettori. As a result, Dana White announced that the Brazilian would have to move up a division. While this is yet to be finalized, let us take him at his word for now.

For Santos, this would give him a big-time fight and a chance to re-find his form against an inexperienced fighter in the weight class. A win would give him a lot of momentum and, given Costa's unknown status at 205 lbs, a loss for either man would not be too damaging.

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#1. Thiago Santos vs. Jamahal Hill

Jamahal Hill holds a record of 10-1 (1 NC)

Jamahal Hill has gone back-and-forth with Volkan Oezdemir over social media and appears somewhat set on that match-up. However, his current wave of momentum might allow him to take on an even bigger name should he desire. Santos is likely a more high-profile fight and could provide Hill with a more appealing match-up.

Both Santos and Hill have extremely heavy hands and own a track-record of knocking out their opponents. A bout between the pair could therefore be very entertaining and might be the most appropriate fight for Hill as he now enters the top 10.

Santos will have his chance to show that he isn't ready to allow the younger contender to take his spot just yet. If he were to get the win, he'd be right back up there amongst the sport's big names. A loss may also not be too damaging given Hill's current trajectory.