Paulo Costa urges Brazilians to emigrate after Lula secures fourth presidential term

UFC middleweight Paulo Costa publicly urged Brazilians to emigrate after Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, of the Workers’ Party, defeated Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro in Sunday’s presidential runoff to claim an unprecedented fourth term. Costa, who is based in Las Vegas, posted his reaction on X shortly after the result was confirmed.

“Not being part of this madness is a relief, airport is the way out friends,” Costa wrote. “Enjoy it while you can still leave. In 4 years the situation will become VERY difficult. Whoever wants, I can help get the documentation for the USA, where I live. It was the best thing I ever did, THANKS TO GOD!”

When an X user criticised his response, Costa doubled down, distancing himself entirely from his home country. “My suitcases are at my other house in Las Vegas,” he replied. “The one who’s gonna cry is you, who lives and is doomed to the Brazil of the PT for another 4 years. I don’t have anything to do with this country anymore.”

The comments add a political dimension to what is already a turbulent period for Costa away from the cage. The 33-year-old is currently locked in a contract dispute with the UFC over the final fight remaining on his deal. While Costa has stated he wants to fulfil his contractual obligations, UFC CEO Dana White has claimed that “Borrachinha” was presented with multiple fight offers and declined each one. The standoff has left his competitive future in the promotion uncertain.