Alessandro Costa Aims for UFC Flyweight Ranking Breakthrough
Alessandro Costa is on the cusp of a significant career milestone, believing he’s ready to be recognized as a major player in the UFC’s flyweight division. He’s set to face a highly-ranked opponent, Matt Schnell, on September 7th in Las Vegas, a bout he sees as his gateway to the official UFC rankings. This fight represents a pivotal moment for Costa, offering a clear path to achieving a long-term goal.
Making a Statement Against a Top Contender
Costa views his upcoming fight against Matt Schnell not just as another bout, but as a critical opportunity to prove his worth on the global stage. Schnell, a seasoned veteran currently positioned within the top 15 of the flyweight division, represents a significant step up in competition. Costa is confident that a victory over Schnell, especially one that ends the fight decisively, will be enough to earn him a spot in the official UFC rankings. He expressed his aspirations, stating that he believes a win will undoubtedly propel him into the top 15, if not higher, which has been his strategic objective for the year. Costa has meticulously planned his career progression, focusing on smart fights and dedicated training to reach this ranking goal, a necessary step towards eventually competing for a championship title.
Strategic Approach and Skill Exploitation
Having compiled a 2-1 record in his last three outings, with his sole loss being a closely contested decision against former title challenger Steve Erceg, Costa is riding a wave of momentum. His most recent performance in May saw him secure a decisive second-round TKO victory over Kevin Borjas. Costa is convinced he can carry this winning energy into his fight with Schnell, whom he respects but also believes has exploitable weaknesses. He’s identified specific gaps in Schnell’s fighting style that he intends to capitalize on, aiming to find a knockout or secure a submission. While acknowledging Schnell’s dangerous capabilities and willingness to engage, Costa feels his own skillset and strategic approach are well-suited to exploit these openings, making him a formidable opponent.
The Road Ahead and Championship Aspirations
Costa’s primary focus remains on systematically climbing the flyweight ladder, and a win over Schnell is the immediate, crucial step. He understands that breaking into the rankings is not just about winning fights, but about defeating established contenders who are already on the UFC’s radar. This strategic approach, avoiding rushed fights and instead targeting opponents who can elevate his profile, is designed to position him for future opportunities. Costa’s ultimate ambition extends beyond mere ranking; he is building his career with the clear intention of challenging for the UFC flyweight championship. Each fight, and particularly this one against Schnell, is a calculated move towards that ultimate goal of competing for UFC gold.
