Melquizael Costa is set for a remarkably active stretch, preparing for his third UFC bout in just 85 days this Saturday as he faces Julian Erosa in Las Vegas. This follows a rapid succession of victories: a first-round submission of Andre Fili in February and a decision win over Christian Rodriguez weeks later in Mexico City.
Despite the packed schedule, Costa expressed a desire for even more frequent competition, drawing a comparison to Muay Thai fighters. His primary challenge, however, is the weight cut. He`s considered moving up to lightweight (155 lbs) but intends to stay at featherweight (145 lbs) for the foreseeable future, aiming for “two or three years” at the division to “do some damage, win the belt, beat everybody up” before making the move.
Costa`s UFC journey included a short-notice debut loss at lightweight. He has since alternated between 145 lbs and 155 lbs but has found significant success recently at featherweight, racking up three consecutive wins, two of which were finishes.
He reiterated that managing his weight is the main hurdle for such activity, although diet changes have made it easier than before. Fortunately, he has remained injury-free during this busy period, allowing him to accept fights frequently.
Looking at his opponent, Julian Erosa, Costa believes Erosa might be on the larger side for featherweight and could eventually transition to a higher weight class. Costa was comfortable taking this fight partly because Erosa also had a recent bout (finishing Darren Elkins in April), making the quick turnaround feel more equitable. He admitted, however, with a laugh, that he would likely have taken the fight regardless of Erosa`s rest time.
Erosa brings an aggressive style to the octagon, with a record showing multiple finishes, including stopping his last three opponents. Costa views it as a favorable stylistic matchup, noting Erosa`s forward pressure and willingness to strike, but anticipates that Erosa will ultimately look to take the fight to the ground.
“It’s going to be fun because he walks forward and likes to trade on the feet,” Costa stated. He also pointed out that both fighters possess effective guillotine chokes, adding an interesting dynamic. Despite Erosa`s size, Costa feels he doesn`t fully utilize his reach, preferring to close distance. The fight is expected to involve kick exchanges before Erosa attempts a takedown, as, according to Costa, “Everybody does, man. In the end, everybody wants to take me to the ground.” Costa expressed strong confidence should the fight hit the canvas, declaring, “If he goes to the ground he’s dead, man. That’s my area.”
