Paulo Costa is breaking his silence on the allegations that he attacked a nurse in Brazil earlier this week ... saying in a statement on Wednesday the claims are "reckless and inconsistent."
The UFC star, according to Brazilian media outlet Globo.com, was accused of hitting a nurse with his elbow following an argument over a COVID vaccine card in Belo Horizonte.
The outlet reported that Costa told nurses he wanted a vaccination. But, according to the report, Costa backed out of getting the shots, yet still wanted the filled-out vaccine card.
Globo.com reported when a female nurse tried to stop him from leaving with the card, the 31-year-old hit her with an elbow. She reportedly complained of swelling in her lips.
On his Instagram page Wednesday, Costa opened up about the allegations ... saying in a statement, "The accusations and facts narrated do not reflect the reality of what happened."
"The fact will be carefully investigated and the appropriate legal measures for their perfect clarification will be taken."
He added in the press release, "this kind of allegations are completely incompatible with his history and way of life."
It's unclear if Costa is currently under police investigation.
Costa holds a 13-2 record in the UFC with wins over Yoel Romero and Uriah Hall ... and is the org.'s #4-ranked middleweight fighter.