Analysis of Paulo Costa's Physique and PED Allegations

Nov 5, 2024

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.