He has good cardio for a guy of his size. He also still has a good output even when he's tiring
I agree.
It is easy to go 5 rounds, just like it's easy to go 5 laps around a track, if you're holding back and pacing yourself.
It's extremely difficult to go 5 rounds, just like it's extremely difficult to go 5 times around the track, if you're running as fast as you can.
Izzy has a long-distance runner's build, which is why he fights at a modest/slow pace, because he doesn't really do much for 5 rounds ... takes breaks, regroups, repositions, etc.
Costa actually has tremendous stamina for the amount of output he gives — especially for the amount of musculature. I agree, most musclebound dudes have shit for air, but Costa not only has incredible stamina, actually — but even when fatigued, he's still throwing down, chasing your ass, trying to knock you TF out. He's really pretty unique if looked at properly.
Because it's 5 rounds, and because of the above, I expect Costa to be a little slower at first. However, he seems to be a natural fighter; meaning, when hit or clipped, there is an "on" button that's switched in him, and he just goes into fight mode.
Izzy is going to be on his back foot more than he's ever been in his life. I don't think he has the firepower to knock Costa out cold. Especially when backing up. Even if he drops Costa, Costa will not let up; in fact, I think it will fire-up Costa even more, making it worse for Izzy.
Remember, Izzy was basically completely fatigued trying to knock out the midget, Gastelum. Izzy looked sharp for 2 rounds only, and then was basically a flimsy noodle for the remainder of the fight. If Izzy is that flimsy by round 3, against Costa, he will get knocked TF out.
