Alessandro Costa and Diego Lopes: UFC's Noche UFC Card Presents Cornering Challenges
Alessandro Costa and Diego Lopes, both prominent figures in the UFC, are set to appear on the same card at Noche UFC. However, a unique situation arises regarding cornering, as Lopes, headlining the event, won't be allowed to corner Costa during his preliminary fight against Alden Coria. The event is scheduled for September 13 in San Antonio, TX.
Cornering Conundrum: Lopes in Costa's Corner?
While Costa will be able to corner Lopes for his main event bout against Jean Silva, the UFC has prohibited Lopes from returning the favor. This contrasts with previous instances, such as the last Noche UFC card where Lopes cornered Alexa Grasso after his own victory over Brian Ortega. "The UFC didn’t let [Lopes be my corner]," Costa stated. "We tried, but even though it was the third fight of the night, they said he couldn’t do it."
Past Success and Shared Experiences
The "Brazilian Warriors" have a history of success on the same cards, notably at Lux Fight League 7 in 2019 in Monterrey, Mexico. Lopes defended his 145-pound title by submitting Marco Beltran, while Costa secured a decision victory against Diego Ortiz. However, at UFC 295, Costa suffered a decision loss to Steve Erceg before Lopes' victory over Pat Sabatini, where Costa was unable to be in Lopes' corner.
Lopes vs. Silva: A Focused Approach
Costa emphasized Lopes' preparation for his fight against Jean Silva. "It was an excellent camp together," Costa said. "[Silva is] a tough fight, we know that, but I think Diego has way more experience than Jean... Diego is very focused, and has a game plan different from past ones." Despite Silva's verbal attacks leading up to the fight, Costa asserts that Lopes is unfazed: "That’s part of his character... We just laugh at all that. Nothing affects us."
Costa's Opponent: Alden Coria
Originally slated to face Edgar Chairez, Costa will now battle Alden Coria, a late replacement. "Even better that he’s a gringo, and that way I can still represent Mexico and Brazil," Costa said. He acknowledges Coria's skills, stating: "Alden is more of a striker, has good takedown defense and a ton of experience, but I see Edgar Chairez being a bit more dangerous than him." Costa, who has resided in Mexico for over a decade, aims to secure a victory and hopes to gain support from Mexican fans in San Antonio.
Scouting Report: Alden "Cobra" Coria
Alden "Cobra" Coria makes his UFC debut at Noche UFC. A 27-year-old flyweight fighting out of Houston, Texas, and training at 4oz. Fight Club, Coria boasts a 10-3 record with 4 KO/TKOs and 4 submissions. Despite early career inconsistencies, he has secured four consecutive victories, including notable wins over Paris Moran and Chris Ocon.
Coria's Strengths and Weaknesses
Coria is described as a well-rounded and improving fighter, although his defensive wrestling remains a weakness. "On the feet, Coria is a technical striker with sharp fundamentals," one scout reported. "He works behind a stiff jab, strings together multi-strike combinations, and targets the body with consistency." His striking is considered clean, fast, and diverse, but he can sometimes cede ground, backing himself into the cage. His grappling is "underrated." Overall, Coria projects as a solid addition to the UFC flyweight roster, with the potential to crack the top 15.