The featherweight showdown between Dan Ige and Melquizael Costa at UFC Houston on February 21, 2026, promises a fast-paced, high-pressure battle.
With Ige’s experience against top contenders and Costa’s rising momentum, this matchup has attracted strong attention from fans and bettors.
Here’s a complete breakdown of both fighters, key stats, and the best prediction for this exciting clash.
Dan Ige: Veteran Power and Fight IQ
Dan Ige enters this bout with a professional record of 18-8, fighting out of Hawaii and competing at 145 lbs.
Known for his durability and polished all-around skill set, Ige brings more than just experience—he brings composure under pressure.
Key Strengths
- Sharp Boxing: Ige lands 3.99 significant strikes per minute, mixing pressure with precision.
- Strong Defense: He absorbs 3.67 strikes per minute, showcasing a nearly even hit-to-land ratio that keeps him competitive in every fight.
- Grappling Threat: While not a heavy wrestler, he still averages 1.07 takedowns per 15 minutes, often used strategically to slow opponents down.
- Octagon Experience: Ige has faced the best in the division—his resume includes fights against elite names, giving him an advantage in high-stakes moments.
Potential Concerns
- Inconsistent Results: Ige has alternated wins and losses in recent outings.
- Slow Starts: He sometimes takes time to find rhythm, which could open early opportunities for Costa.
Melquizael Costa: Rising Featherweight With Dangerous Pace
Costa steps into UFC Houston with a 20-7 record, a tall frame for the division, and an aggressive fighting style.
He averages an impressive 5.23 significant strikes per minute, showing he’s not afraid to push the action.
Key Strengths
- High Output Striking: Costa’s work rate is one of his biggest weapons. He overwhelms opponents with volume.
- Solid Takedown Defense: At 67%, Costa keeps most fights standing, allowing him to dictate pace.
- Youth & Physicality: At 5’10”, he uses his reach well and keeps opponents uncomfortable with constant movement.
Potential Concerns
- Absorption Issues: Costa takes 4.74 strikes per minute, which could be risky against a puncher like Ige.
- Lack of Top-Tier Competition: While talented, he hasn’t faced as many elite opponents as Ige.
Tale of the Tape
| Attribute | Dan Ige | Melquizael Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 18-8 | 20-7 |
| Height | 5’7″ | 5’10” |
| Weight | 145 lbs | 145 lbs |
| Reach | 71″ | 71″ |
| Strikes Landed/Min | 3.99 | 5.23 |
| Strikes Absorbed/Min | 3.67 | 4.74 |
| Takedown Avg | 1.07 | 0.00 |
| Takedown Defense | 56% | 67% |
The physical edge slightly favors Costa, but Ige’s defense and accuracy keep this matchup competitive.
Fight Breakdown: What to Expect
This matchup is the classic case of experience vs momentum. Costa’s pace will be the primary challenge for Ige. If Ige fails to slow Costa’s output early, the rising contender may steal rounds with volume.
However, Ige’s fight IQ, counter-striking, and ability to mix in takedowns give him clear paths to control the bout.
Key Factors to Watch
- Ige’s Counterpunching – Costa leaves openings when rushing forward.
- Costa’s Volume – If he stays active, judges may favor his output.
- Grappling Mix-ups – One or two takedowns from Ige could shift momentum.
- Durability – Both fighters are tough, making a finish less likely.
Dan Ige vs Melquizael Costa Prediction
While Costa has the athletic edge and volume advantage, Dan Ige’s experience, cleaner striking, and superior shot selection make him the safer pick.
He tends to perform well against up-and-coming fighters who rely heavily on volume but leave defensive gaps.
Final Prediction: Dan Ige wins by Decision
Expect a competitive fight, but Ige’s accuracy and tactical approach should help him edge out the rounds.