Paulo Costa wants his UFC jacket after claiming 200 drug tests

Paulo Costa is calling out the UFC for recognition of his extensive drug-testing history. The Brazilian middleweight claims he has undergone approximately 200 drug tests throughout his career—four times the number that earned Arman Tsarukyan a milestone jacket from the promotion after 50 clean tests. Costa took to social media to voice his frustration, posting that he deserves similar acknowledgment from the UFC.

Costa has long been among the most frequently tested athletes on the UFC roster, a scrutiny that stemmed partly from a 2019 incident in which he accepted a six-month suspension from USADA for using an IV infusion to aid recovery during a weight cut. Despite the suspension, he has never tested positive for banned substances. The Brazilian has also publicly complained about surprise drug-testing visits arriving at his home during grueling weight cuts, an experience that inspired him to launch his "Secret Juice" brand.

With one fight remaining on his UFC contract, Costa has been outspoken about his stalled return to competition. He recently campaigned for an interim light heavyweight title shot but claims the promotion declined and continues to delay his Octagon comeback. His request for a jacket recognizing 200 clean tests underscores his frustration with the lack of acknowledgment for his compliance and commitment to anti-doping protocols.