Following a swift victory over Andre Fili on February 22nd with a guillotine choke, Melquizael Costa is set for a quick return to the Octagon. Just five weeks later, he will face Christian Rodriguez at UFC Mexico.
After experiencing delays between his previous UFC fights, Costa expressed his desire to stay active following his recent win. UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby responded promptly, offering him another fight shortly after his Seattle victory.
“Immediately after my fight, I jokingly told Dana White to call me if they needed someone this week or next,” Costa recounted to MMA Fighting. “I was kidding, but they took it seriously! During my post-fight medical checks, my coach informed me about Sean Shelby`s call, asking if I was available for March 29th. My body was hesitant, but my mind said yes due to bills! Initially, I didn’t think it would happen, but on the way to the hotel, we received two potential opponent names: Christian Rodriguez and Jamall Emmers.”
Rodriguez boasts a UFC record of five wins in seven fights, recently defeating Austin Bashi in January. Emmers, in contrast, has a 3-4 UFC record, suffering a knockout loss to Nate Landwehr in March 2024.
Costa explained his preference for Rodriguez: “A fight against Jamal Emmers might be easier, but less impactful. I just submitted a fighter who hadn`t been submitted in a decade, a well-known name who has fought top contenders. Fighting Emmers, who is on a losing streak, wouldn`t be as valuable. Christian Rodriguez is a more compelling opponent. He`s on a winning streak, has Mexican heritage, making this a more exciting matchup.”
Costa returned to Brazil two days after his win and immediately contacted his manager to confirm the March 29th fight. He started training that very night, preparing for his next camp. Costa then traveled to Mexico City to acclimate to the altitude, finalizing his preparations at the UFC Performance Institute in Mexico.
“We always anticipate what our opponents will bring to the fight,” Costa stated. “I make sure to study every UFC fighter. I watch every event, so I`ve been aware of Christian Rodriguez since his fight with Raul Rosas Jr. He’s a young, hungry fighter on a good run, much like myself. I`m not sure if he has the same financial motivations as me, but we share the same drive. I expect him to be fearless and ready to fight.”
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely