Costa Demands Rematch With Albazi After UFC 329 Win

dominant win over Durden

Alessandro Costa showcased his dominance at UFC 329 in Las Vegas, forcing Cody Durden to tap out to a rear‑naked choke in the second round. The finish came after Costa opened a cut on Durden’s head, sealing a submission victory that launched him into the spotlight at T‑Mobile Arena. Durden’s record stands at 18‑11‑1 in mixed‑martial arts and 7‑9‑1 inside the UFC, while Costa improved to 17‑5 overall and 5‑3 inside the promotion.

The win marks Costa’s third consecutive success at flyweight, all achieved in 2026 and all by stoppage. Each victory has come with a sense of finality, propelling him toward a desired redemption story. He now believes the timing is right to target the fight that slipped through his hands on short notice.

seeking redemption against Albazi

Costa’s last defeat came at the hands of Amir Albazi in late 2022, a loss by knockout that ended in the third round of his promotional debut. He was thrust into that bout on only two weeks’ notice after Albazi’s original opponents withdrew, a scenario that still haunts his recollection. Speaking at his post‑fight news conference, Costa noted he now has “that voice” and the agency to choose his next opponent.

“I think fighting Amir Albazi would be great,” Costa said, emphasizing his readiness for a rematch. He specifically suggested the fight could take place at Noche UFC, the September event slated for a high‑profile lineup. The Brasilian fighter’s comments signal a clear ambition to settle the unfinished business with Albazi.

what the rematch could mean for Costa

A rematch with Albazi would serve as a validation of Costa’s recent run and a statement that he has moved past the loss that marked his UFC entry. Historically, fallen fighters who secure a decisive win often find themselves positioned for elite bouts, and Costa’s stoppage victories have already drawn notice from promoters. Securing a card against Albazi at Noche UFC would also place him among the featured fighters of a premium series.

Should the rematch materialize, the bout would likely be viewed as a potential title‑contender showdown, especially if Costa continues to dominate at flyweight. Fans and analysts will watch whether the two‑year gap and the upcoming September window present the ideal stage for a decisive outcome. Costa’s confidence and the clear pathway he outlines suggest the next chapter could be defined by that highly anticipated match.