Paulo Borrachinha ignores confrontation with Ankalaev and suggests a swap for a UFC legend.

Paulo Borrachinha is the Brazilian representative in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/@UFC

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Paulo Borrachinha , it seems, would be willing to forgo a potential fight against Magomed Ankalaev . After the Russian's victory over Bogdan Guskov at UFC Abu Dhabi , fans and experts began to point to the duel against the Brazilian as the next step for the former champion. However, if it were up to the fighter from Minas Gerais, the Dagestani fighter could be replaced by the organization.

The discussion gained momentum on social media when a fan questioned who would really care if the UFC chose to replace Ankalaev with an athlete from another organization. In response, Borrachinha surprised everyone by humorously suggesting Ronda Rousey 's return to the octagon in place of her rival.

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"Bring back Ronda," Borrachinha wrote.

Bring back Ronda https://t.co/MpDDB3x6tf

— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) July 28, 2026

Despite Carlos Ulberg being the current light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg), the division is moving towards the creation of an interim belt sometime in 2026. This is because the New Zealander suffered a knee injury in his victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327, held in April, and expects to return to the octagon only in 2027.

Given this scenario, Paulo Borrachinha and Magomed Ankalaev emerge as the main contenders to compete for the interim title, as they are the only names at the top of the category who are coming off a victory.

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