A huge return has just been announced as UFC legend Jose Aldo is stepping out of retirement. This return was announced during the March 16th edition of UFC Fight Night, surprising UFC fans around the world. Aldo, whose last fight was in August of 2022, which was a decision loss to Merab Dvalishvilli, will make his return at UFC 301 against Jonathan Martinez in his home country of Brazil. The fight will be taking place on May 4th at Farmasi Arena.
Jose Aldo
Jose Aldo is considered by many as the greatest UFC Featherweight of all time. During his legendary featherweight championship run, Aldo had seven straight defenses, defeating fighters like Chad Mendes and The Korean Zombie. Aldo would suffer an infamous loss against Conor Mcgregor in 2015, losing his title in only 13 seconds, but he would win his title back at UFC 200 in a fight against Frankie Edgar.
Jose Aldo fought in the Bantamweight division from 2019 to 2022, so it’s no surprise that this fight will be a bantamweight bout. Although he is coming off a loss, he has wins over ranked fighters in the bantamweight division, such as Rob Font, Pedro Munhoz, and Marlon “Chito” Vera.
Jonathan Martinez
As for his opponent, Jonathan Martinez, he is a 29-year-old fighter who has been looking to move his way up the bantamweight rankings. He’s been making noise in the division as he has won his last 6 fights in the UFC. He has already gotten some huge wins over Adrian Yanez and Cub Swanson. A win for Martinez over a legend like Aldo will possibly put him in the top 10 in the division and would also be a career-making moment for the young fighter.
UFC 301
This fight will likely be the Co-main event of UFC 301, and it may be a 5-rounder. UFC Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja looks to defend his title in the main event. Other notable fighters, such as Anthony Smith and Michel Pereira, will be in action at 301. This is the first time the company will be going to Brazil since UFC 283.
Aldo ended his career on a high note, as he won three of his last four fights against ranked fighters. This return comes as a shock to UFC fans as it felt seemingly clear that Aldo was done fighting. If Aldo decides to stay in the UFC, he could prove that he’s one of the greatest fighters ever. This return will be watched around the world and will definitely be a sight to see.
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