5 opponents for Paulo Costa at light heavyweight

#2. Paulo Costa vs. Thiago Santos

UFC Fight Night: Santos v Walker

If Paulo Costa is successful in his light heavyweight bouts, former title challenger Thiago Santos could be a possible opponent. Similar to Costa, Santos moved up from middleweight to light heavyweight.

Santos initially moved up to light heavyweight as a replacement and as a way to remain active. Santos defeated Eryk Anders by TKO and made his move to 205 lbs permanent. The change paid dividends as he earned KO/TKO wins over Jimi Manuwa and current light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz. Both wins earned Santos a title-shot against then-champion Jon Jones, where he lost a split decision.

Santos is another example of what Costa has the potential to accomplish competing in his more natural weight class. Paulo Costa vs. Thiago Santos would be a hard-hitting affair and has Fight of the Night written all over it.

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#1. Paulo Costa vs. Anthony Smith

UFC Fight Night: Smith v Clark

Topping this list of possible opponents for Paulo Costa at light heavyweight is former title challenger Anthony Smith. Although 'Lionheart' is currently in the mix for another title shot, a future bout with Costa at 205 lbs shouldn't be ruled out.

Smith's rise up the light heavyweight ranks saw him defeat former champions Rashad Evans and Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua. He also beat former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir. Smith's victories earned him a title shot against then-champion Jon Jones, but he was defeated in a one-sided unanimous decision.

After defeating perennial contender Alexander Gustafsson, Smith suffered back-to-back losses. He has since turned things around and is currently on a three-fight winning streak.

Paulo Costa vs. Smith would be intriguing because the American is a very well-rounded fighter who possesses a threat to 'Borrachinha' in the grappling department. Smith's 14 wins by submission are almost as many as his 20 wins by knockout.