Paulo Costa asking for $15 million to fight Israel Adesanya, coach ‘The Ultimate Fighter’

Add undefeated middleweight contender Paulo Costa to the growing list of fighters who want more money from Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Costa, one of the promotion’s most promising young stars, is on the cusp of locking down his first ever UFC title shot. The 29-year-old Brazilian has produced a 5-0 record inside of the Octagon since making his debut back in 2017 and remains the most obvious choice to challenge current UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya next time out.

After all, the two have been bickering back-and-forth over the past year while creating one of MMA’s biggest active rivalries. It only makes sense for the promotion to schedule the middleweight title fight, especially since Costa and Adesanya are the two most feared strikers in the division.

In a recent social media post, Costa not only teased the 185-pound grudge match but also a potential coaching stint on “The Ultimate Fighter.”

“BN: The ultimate fighter Adelasanha x Costa. Who likes that match?,” asked Costa.

That’s all well and good, but it now seems as if “Borrachinha” is asking for an obscene amount of money to fight Adesanya for the 185-pound strap, especially if it means coaching opposite “Last Stylebender” on TUF.

When asked by a fan if a deal has been finalized Costa revealed his asking price, which is close to what Jon Jones apparently wants.

“Not done deal yet. I want 15 million like Jon,” said Costa.

We all know how good Costa has been and what he can bring to a division on the cusp of truly breaking out, but is he really worth this kind of money? Should UFC bend over backwards to pay the Brazilian in the vicinity of $15 million to challenge for the middleweight title and coach the next season of TUF?

It seems a little steep, but “Borrachinha” is one of the most exciting knockout finishers in the sport today. UFC loves to back those type of fighters and may end up working out something close to what Costa needs.

However, Costa can’t wait too long for a deal to be finalized. Adesanya is already chomping at the bit to move up in weight and challenge Jones, while other middleweight contenders like Robert Whittaker, Darren Till, and Jared Cannonier also wait their turn.

What say you, Maniacs? Does Costa deserve this type of money to challenge for a title and coach TUF?

Let’s hear it!