Muhammad Ali vs Paulo Costa
Head-to-head comparison — tale of the tape, career analysis, stylistic breakdown, and prediction factors

Muhammad Ali
61-5-0
Paulo Costa
16-4-0Physical Comparison
Muhammad Ali stands 191cm tall compared to Paulo Costa's 185cm — a 6cm height advantage that could allow Ali to control range and use the jab effectively.
Record & Experience
Muhammad Ali brings a record of 61-5-0 across 66 professional bouts (92% win rate).Paulo Costa enters with 16-4-0 from 20 fights (80% win rate).
Muhammad Ali has the experience edge with 66 bouts compared to 20 — that's 46 more fights under the bright lights, which can matter in championship rounds when fatigue sets in and composure is tested.
In terms of finishing power, Paulo Costa carries the heavier hands with a 75% stoppage rate vs 0% for Muhammad Ali. Costa is the more dangerous finisher of the two.
Age & Career Stage
Paulo Costa is the younger fighter at 35 compared to Muhammad Ali's 84 — a 49-year age gap. The younger fighter may have the edge in physical attributes, while Ali relies on veteran savvy and accumulated skill.
Key Factors
Ali's Path to Victory
- • Use height and reach to control distance
- • Trust the higher win rate (92% vs 80%)
- • Lean on greater experience (66 bouts)
- • Establish rhythm early and dictate the pace
Costa's Path to Victory
- • Look for the stoppage (75% KO rate)
- • Apply pressure and force the fight on their terms
Muhammad Ali vs Paulo Costa — FAQ
- What are Muhammad Ali's and Paulo Costa's records?
- Muhammad Ali is 61-5-0 (0 KOs). Paulo Costa is 16-4-0 (12 KOs).
- Who is taller — Muhammad Ali or Paulo Costa?
- Muhammad Ali is taller at 191cm vs 185cm — a 6cm advantage.
- Who has the higher knockout rate?
- Paulo Costa has the higher KO rate at 75% compared to Muhammad Ali's 0%.