Oh, Jose Aldo. A legend, truly. He owned the 145-pound weight class like it was his backyard from November 2009 to December 2015. First, he was the featherweight king over at World Extreme Cagefighting. Then, boom! He became the UFC’s first champ in that weight class.
Aldo’s fights? They were events, man. While others were busy trash-talking on Twitter, Aldo let his fists and those deadly leg kicks speak volumes. Always the pro, always the sport’s ambassador. No wonder he got his spot in the UFC Hall of Fame’s Modern Wing in 2023. And guess what? After hanging up his gloves, the fire’s back. Aldo’s stepping back into the octagon to face Jonathan Martinez at UFC 301. Rio’s gonna be lit!
Now, let’s dive into some of Aldo’s most epic throwdowns, shall we?
Urijah Faber, folks. Aldo went to Faber’s turf in Sacramento and delivered a masterclass. Poor “California Kid” got his legs chopped up so bad, he could barely stand. That fight was a statement. Aldo wasn’t just defending his title at WEC 48; he was dominating.
Then there’s Chad Mendes. Mendes was on fire, undefeated and all, until Aldo stopped him dead in his tracks at UFC 142. A knee from Aldo, and the crowd went wild. Their rematch? Just as intense. Aldo dropped Mendes but also got dropped himself. Still, he came out on top, unanimous decision and all.
Frankie Edgar. The guy’s a legend, but Aldo was just too much for him. Their first fight? A showcase of Aldo’s leg kicks and boxing. The rematch at UFC 200? More of the same, with Aldo keeping his crown.
Ah, Conor McGregor. The rivalry was intense, with McGregor getting under Aldo’s skin like no one else. Their fight? Over in 13 seconds. McGregor’s left hook made history that night at UFC 194.
Max Holloway was a different story. It was like watching a torch being passed. Holloway’s pressure was just too much for Aldo, leading to two TKO losses in 2017. Those fights marked the end of an era and the rise of a new champion.
Aldo’s career? It’s been a rollercoaster, filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. But one thing’s for sure: he’s a fighter through and through.