Costa was one of the unexpected breakout talents of last year, posting four wins to run his winning streak to five and gaining traction in the featherweight division and in the public.
The 29-year-old Brazilian has only lost once when competing in his natural weight class in the UFC and wrapped 2025 by walking out to “Hakuna Matata” and then sparking Morgan Charriere with a swift kick upside the head. As more people learn his story, connect with his colorful personality, and see him compete, Costa will become a fan favorite and could challenge for a place in the 145-pound rankings.
Islam Dulatov
Dulatov ticks all the boxes when it comes to being a potential breakout candidate as he’s won a dozen straight since dropping his professional debut, produced a bonus-winning finish in his first UFC appearance, and has the swagger of someone that fully believes they will one day sit on the welterweight throne.
Did I mention he’s also a model? Yeah.
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The one thing that creates a little pause when it comes to going all-in on the 27-year-old finisher is that he fought just once in 2025 and has primarily been a “two fights per year” type of guy, which can occasionally make it difficult to gain real traction. But if you’re finishing people the way he did Adam Fugitt at UFC 318, that probably won’t be an issue.