5 potential opponents for Derek Brunson after UFC 271 setback

#4. Derek Brunson vs. Brad Tavares

Brad Tavares is ranked No.11 with a record of 19-6

Derek Brunson has several options for his retirement fight, and while Brad Tavares may not be the most high-profile, he does seem worthy. Tavares may be a little further down in the rankings, but he is on a two-fight win streak and appears to be deserving of a shot at the division's top ten.

It makes sense that with Brunson seemingly on the way out, the UFC would want to try and build a new star in Tavares.

Tavares may not be the most exciting name to pair with Brunson for his retirement fight, but it is a matchup that makes a lot of sense. A win for Brunson would be an impressive parting moment, whilst a win for his opponent would be a career-best victory.

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#3. Derek Brunson vs. Paulo Costa

Paulo Costa is ranked No.5 with a record of 13-2

Paulo Costa's most recent performance was a baffling one against Marvin Vettori. Costa showed up to the bout substantially over the weight limit, and after losing, Dana White suggested his future would be in the light heavyweight division.

However, that move up is yet to materialize, and Costa appears to remain in the 185 lbs division. He is a thoroughly entertaining fighter to watch. The UFC could elect to pair him up with Brunson to see if 'Borrachinha' is able to end his two-fight skid.

Doing so against the No.4-ranked Brunson would make sense as, should he lose, Costa could then contemplate a move up to light heavyweight. If he were to pick up the win, he would be right back up there with the division's top fighters and not too far from the title picture.