Overview
- Alessandro Costa stepped in for Ode' Osbourne and defeated Cody Durden by rear‑naked choke in the second round of the UFC 329 prelims on Saturday.
- Costa accepted the bout on short notice after Osbourne withdrew, preserving Durden’s place on the Las Vegas card headlined by Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway.
- The win gives Costa a third straight stoppage in 2026 after April and June knockouts and cements his reputation as a knockout artist who also claims dangerous jiu‑jitsu.
- Durden, who had returned to form with an upset over Jafel Filho, was caught after a mistimed high kick and then surrendered his back as Costa locked the choke.
- The victory strengthens Costa’s case to request a September Noche UFC booking and higher‑ranked opponents while highlighting how short‑notice calls can accelerate a fighter’s career trajectory.