Jose Aldo Moves On from Combat Sports
Jose Aldo, the legendary former two-time UFC featherweight champion, has decided to retire from combat sports. He made his last appearance in the Octagon two weeks ago at UFC 315, where he faced Canadian contender Aiemann Zahabi. Aldo showcased his typical thrilling style, engaging in a fierce battle for 15 minutes before losing by unanimous decision and announcing his retirement from active competition.
Previously, Aldo had retired from MMA in 2022, took a brief foray into boxing, but returned to the UFC in 2024. However, he confirmed on “The Ariel Helwani Show” that this retirement is definitive. “I made the decision right then and there, win or lose, I was sure of what was going to happen,” Aldo stated about his fight at UFC 315. He emphasized that he returned to the UFC not for financial reasons, but to continue his legacy.
Throughout his career, which began in 2004, Aldo secured seven title defenses in the UFC’s featherweight division along with two more in the WEC. Even though MMA retirements are often temporary, Aldo felt confident that it was time to step away. “I just said, ‘No, this is it. I don’t have it in me anymore,'” he remarked, expressing that he no longer enjoyed the competition.
Aldo’s recent matchups have mainly included rising top-10 contenders rather than bouts against fellow legends. Despite this, he was content with the fighters he faced. “There were no regrets,” Aldo noted, expressing gratitude towards the UFC matchmaker for the opportunities he received throughout his career.
His last victory was a unanimous decision against Jonathan Martinez in May 2024, serving as a comeback after his initial retirement. Although he felt he had done enough to win his final fight against Zahabi, he did not wish to dwell on it, stating, “I think now, it’s in the past.”
Beyond fighting, Aldo has remained active with various business ventures, including a hamburger restaurant. Looking ahead, he plans to focus less on fighting, engaging in new projects and goals. “I’m going to be leaving the fight world a bit,” Aldo affirmed while adding that he will still be involved with Pederneiras Boxing and is open to supporting the UFC if needed.
