Legendary mixed martial artist Jose Aldo has announced his retirement from the sport following a very close and controversial decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315. The former champion declared that the event would mark the final fight of his illustrious career, feeling he no longer possessed the necessary drive.
Despite putting on a strong performance, including coming close to securing a finish in the third and final round, Aldo appeared to tire later in the fight, allowing Zahabi to land significant strikes until the bout concluded. While many observers disagreed with the outcome, all three judges scored the fight 29-28 in favor of Zahabi.
Immediately after the official result was announced, Aldo removed his gloves and addressed the Montreal audience, confirming his decision to step away from competition.
In an emotional statement, Aldo thanked UFC president Dana White, Sean Shelby, Lorenzo Fertitta, and everyone within the organization for the opportunities he was given. He explained his reasoning, stating, “I don’t think I have it in me anymore. This was a tough week… I just felt there were so many things that happened. It was very tough to go through all this.” He added, “My body said no and I just don’t think I have it anymore. I don’t want to go into war all the time and go through this. I just don’t have it in my heart anymore. I think this is the last time you’re going to see me. I can’t do this anymore.”
If this indeed concludes his fighting career, Aldo retires as one of the greatest champions in UFC history, leaving behind a remarkable professional record of 32 wins and 10 losses. He had already been inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame prior to this bout.
For Aiemann Zahabi, this victory stands as the most significant of his career. Unless Aldo decides otherwise, Zahabi will hold the distinction of being the final opponent on the Brazilian icon`s resume.
Zahabi expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating, “It feels amazing. I did all the work. He was eight pounds overweight, I took it anyway. I was rocked for sure. I was a bit disoriented but my mindset coach tells me to prepare for these moments.” Looking ahead, Zahabi called out Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera, expressing his desire to move up the rankings.
From the outset of the fight, Aldo moved forward aggressively, attempting to pressure Zahabi and landing powerful right hands to the chin. He also attacked the body effectively, appearing to have a speed advantage over the Canadian opponent.
Towards the end of the first round, Zahabi connected with a solid strike and a teep kick, but Aldo quickly countered with a sharp combination.
As the fight wore on, Aldo`s pace slowed somewhat, but he continued to find success with a precise jab that repeatedly landed. Zahabi also landed a hard right hand during this period, which was arguably his best punch of the contest up to that point.
In the final round, Zahabi landed some shots before Aldo suddenly unleashed a brilliant knee strike up the center. This opened the door for Aldo to swarm with strikes, including head kicks, appearing moments away from a finish.
Remarkably, Zahabi absorbed the onslaught and survived. He then fired back with heavy punches of his own. From this moment on, Aldo seemed visibly exhausted, and Zahabi capitalized, throwing everything he had in an attempt to secure a finish.
Aldo eventually fell to his back, and Zahabi followed up with a series of damaging punches and elbows. By the time the final horn sounded, Aldo had blood streaming from his face. Both fighters raised their hands in victory, but only one could be declared the official winner.
That winner was Aiemann Zahabi, who now extends his winning streak to six consecutive bouts and adds the significant name of a true MMA icon to his fighting record.
