Jose Aldo is one of the greatest MMA fighters of all-time. Joe Rogan says Max Holloway is the featherweight GOAT but Aldo’s record is special. It’s very difficult to argue with his combined UFC and Strikeforce record. In short, he’s a total legend.
The Brazilian icon will fight for his second title when he takes on Petr Yan at bantamweight. This is controversial because Aldo lost his last fight in a disputed decision against Marlon Moraes. Even though most people think that Aldo won, they also agree that he should at least get an official win first.
Aljamain Sterling is just one fellow 135lber shaking his head, but he’ll just have to wait his turn. If you need a reminder of just how devastating a fighter Aldo is, check out this archive clip below. Famed for his soccer kicks, Aldo lets them fly to devastating effect.
Here is Jose Aldo circa 2005 winning an early fight via soccer kick for some nightmare fuel #UFC251 pic.twitter.com/CFD5Yze5PO
— Freelance Goon (@FreelanceGoon) July 1, 2020
Savage
The clip above shows Aldo against Anderson Silverio. The fight took place at Meca World Vale Tudo 12 on July 9, 2005, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was just the fifth fight of Aldo’s professional MMA career after starting to fight as a pro in 2004. As you can see, he was just as much of a savage then, as he is now.
In fact, you can argue that he’s a much more methodical striker these days than as a younger man. Also is also famed for his leg kicks, but we all know that he hasn’t used them much, if at all, in recent fights. It will be fascinating to see how he copes against the clinical Petr Yan.
Not Suprised
As for Yan, he isn’t surprised that he is fighting Aldo. The Russian trains at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand. His most recent victory was a crushing KO win over veteran Urijah Faber. In short, he’s one of the most focused fighters on the entire roster right now. He also believes that he will beat Aldo.
“After Sterling was booked to fight Sandhagaen, I knew it would be either Aldo or (Marlon) Moraes,” Yan told MMA Junkie. “I wasn’t surprised that UFC chose Aldo because he was supposed to fight for the title in May, anyway. Right now, I can’t dictate who I want to fight. I’m the challenger for the vacant belt, and I’m taking advantage of this opportunity.”
Respect
Yan respects Aldo’s experience and abilities. He also acknowledges that he’s a bigger man. However, the Russian looks as sharp as they come and wants to put on a show for UFC fans. In sum, he’s full of confidence and thinks that he can beat anybody in front of him. From his past performances, you would be brave to doubt him.
“Aldo is a very experienced and well-trained fighter,” Yan said. “He doesn’t make many mistakes. He will be ready to go the full distance. But I believe I have the ability and tools to defeat him. I have no doubt it will be an exciting contest. It is because our styles match up very well.
“I envision this fight will end with my hand being raised. I believe I can defeat every fighter in my division.”
