Notes on Paulo Costa's Physique and Alleged PED Use

Introduction

• Discussion led by Derek Marpley from TomorrowDates.com.
• Topic: Paulo Costa's physique and potential use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Paulo Costa's Physique

• Costa known for his muscular and lean physique.
• Recently posted physique updates showing he is over 200 pounds.
• Costa cuts to 185 pounds for fights, quickly regains weight after weigh-ins.

History and Background

• Paulo Costa emerged in UFC through The Ultimate Fighter Brazil Season 3.
• Initially a bodybuilder, Costa entered the UFC with an impressive physique.
• Commonly circulated before-image shows Costa less defined but was shortly before entering The Ultimate Fighter.
• Costa's body transformation raises suspicions of PED use given his bodybuilding background.

Allegations of PED Use

• Allegations derive from Costa's rapid weight changes and body composition.
• Bodybuilders in Brazil reportedly have a 20% prevalence of anabolic steroid use.
• Costa was a bodybuilder, implying a likely familiarity with steroids.

UFC and Testing

• UFC employs USADA for anti-doping but testing procedures may have loopholes.
• Brazil's testing commission potentially influenced due to Costa's connections.
• During COVID-19, testing was limited, potentially allowing for PED use.

Costa's Supplements and Doctor

• Uses supplements from DNA Supplements, not certified by NSF for sport.
• Dr. Lucas Penchel, associated with Costa, previously sanctioned by USADA.

Steroid Use and Physical Injuries

• Costa sustained a bicep tear, a common injury among steroid users.
• Attempted to use a fake doctor for clearance to fight, indicating willingness to bend rules.

Costa's Testing and Results

• Potential use of bioidentical testosterone to avoid detection.
• Discussion of John Jones' case and the testosterone to epitestosterone ratio.
• Jones' suppressed testosterone levels suggest synthetic anabolic use.
• Costa could hypothetically microdose fast-acting testosterone to avoid detection.

UFC Fighters' Accusations

• Fellow UFC fighters like Uriah Hall and Israel Adesanya have suggested Costa is on PEDs.
• Costa's physicality exceeds natural expectations for someone training in MMA.

Conclusion

• Extensive discussion of potential PED use in UFC and how athletes might circumvent testing.
• Costa remains a subject of debate and suspicion within the UFC community.

Call to Action

• Readers encouraged to comment on their thoughts regarding Costa's natural versus enhanced status.