Melquizael Costa is on the rise in the UFC featherweight division, and his journey has been anything but ordinary. After a rocky start to his career in January 2023, where he lost two out of his first three fights, Costa has turned the tide, showcasing his undeniable talent and determination.
In 2025, the Brazilian fighter found his rhythm, achieving a remarkable four victories in just one year, including impressive finishes against Andre Fili and Morgan Charriere. This surge in performance caught the attention of fans and critics alike, propelling him to new heights. By 2026, Costa made headlines by becoming the first fighter to stop veteran Dan Ige with a stunning spinning back kick, firmly placing him on the radar of the featherweight elite.
Now, as he prepares to headline an event against seasoned contender Arnold Allen at the Meta APEX on May 16, there are five key aspects of Costa’s story that fans should know.
First and foremost, Costa is undefeated in the Octagon when competing at 145 pounds. While his early losses came at a higher weight class, he has since established himself as a formidable force in the featherweight division, boasting an impressive record of 7-0 with four finishes and two performance bonuses.
Known for his finishing ability, Costa has a knack for ending fights before they reach the judges. Out of his 26 professional wins, 17 have come by way of stoppage, including nine knockouts and eight submissions. His penchant for early finishes is evident, with 11 of those victories occurring in the first round, showcasing his aggressive and opportunistic fighting style.
Adding to his accolades, Costa recently earned his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, a testament to his grappling prowess. Alongside this achievement, he holds a black belt in Muay Thai, further solidifying his status as a well-rounded martial artist. Costa has hinted at having some unique submission techniques up his sleeve, although he remains coy about revealing specific favorites.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Costa is also a passionate advocate for individuals with vitiligo, a skin condition he has lived with since childhood. Embracing his condition, he has transformed what was once a source of bullying into a badge of honor, even adopting the nickname “The Dalmatian.” He aims to inspire others facing similar challenges, sharing how mixed martial arts helped him build confidence and resilience.
At the heart of Costa’s motivation lies his family. He often reflects on the influence of his late older brother, who was a steadfast supporter of his dreams before his untimely passing in 2013. Today, Costa is a devoted husband and father, cherishing moments spent with his wife and children while balancing his fighting career.
As fans gear up for UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Costa, live from the Meta APEX in Las Vegas on May 16, the excitement is palpable. With the prelims kicking off at 5 PM ET and the main card starting at 8 PM ET, all eyes will be on Costa as he steps into the spotlight. What will this rising star accomplish next in his remarkable journey?
Source: https://www.ufc.com/news/five-things-to-know-about-melquizael-costa-featherweight
