Paulo Borrachinha confirms his presence at UFC Rio after controversy with Brazilian fans: 'It's worth every penny'

P. Borrachinha in victory for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook UFC

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After sparking controversy with Brazilian fans in the UFC and stating that he didn't want to fight on the Rio de Janeiro card, scheduled for October 11th, Paulo Borrachinha seems to be using a strategy to reconnect with the Brazilian public. The fighter from Minas Gerais had already clarified his recent statements and has now revealed that he will be present at the event, but outside the octagon.

In a good-humoured tone, the middleweight published on 'X' (formerly Twitter) that the Rio card 'is worth every penny' and announced that he will be present in the stands.

"UFC Bostil is worth every penny. I'll be there supporting," wrote Borrachinha.

UFC bostil is worth every penny. I'll be there supporting

— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) August 1, 2025

Paulo Borrachinha creates controversy with Brazilian fans

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Borrachinha has been the target of criticism from some Brazilian fans due to his statements about public support. In an interview with 'Ag. Fight,' the fighter stated that he doesn't consider relying on Brazilian fans essential to achieving success in the UFC. He believes the sport is global, and an athlete's career doesn't depend solely on acceptance in their own country to generate results or relevance.

"But honestly, I don't need the Brazilian audience. I don't think anyone in the UFC does. What are you going to do there? Sell product? Sell tickets? Sell pay-per-view? I don't think it makes sense. Honestly, my family is Brazilian, my coaches are, but the sport is international," said Borrachinha.

The backlash was immediate, and Borrachinha took to Instagram to explain his remarks. He denied any disdain for his Brazilian fans, reiterated his affection and gratitude for his followers, and highlighted the positive energy he feels when he's around them.

“Hey everyone from Brazil, my friends, look, I even mentioned that they took the interview out of context, saying that I despise Brazilian fans, which is totally untrue. My first and biggest fans are from Brazil, even before the UFC. I love them all, anyone who has contact with me notices the energy, the happiness I have being with the fans from Brazil,” explained Paulo Borrachinha.

Despite his admiration for his fans, the Minas Gerais native made a point of separating his loyal fans from the so-called 'haters.' According to him, these critics don't have his attention, and the more he shows contempt for them, the more he despises them.

"However, I despise the haters, I don't need them, and the more I despise them, the more they hate, which creates a vicious cycle, and what's good ends up being good for the promotion. But I don't despise the Brazilian fans, because that part was biased, you know that," he concluded.

Paulo borrachinha

Paulo Borrachinha knocked Roman Kopylov down with a punch. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufcindia

After a period of uncertainty in his career, Paulo Borrachinha finally returned to the win column in the UFC. The Brazilian was going through a difficult phase, with only one victory in his last five fights. However, in his most recent appearance, he overcame Roman Kopylov with a dominant performance, indicating that he may have left his bad spell behind.

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