Jose Aldo, after coming out of retirement and defeating Jonathan Martinez at UFC 301, is now set to fight Mario Bautista at UFC 307, as he aims for another title shot despite initially hoping to compete directly for a belt.
Jose Aldo made a triumphant return from retirement in May, dominating Jonathan Martinez at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro. The decision was lopsided, and soon after, Aldo inked a new deal with the UFC. Yet, he had hoped for a title shot next.
Instead, Aldo, often called the “King of Rio,” is set to face Mario Bautista this Saturday at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, Utah. “I even thought I could go straight for the title,” Aldo confessed during media day. “But it didn’t happen. I accept any challenge.”
Aldo’s mindset remains unwavering: fight and win regardless of the opponent. Whether it’s Mario or Jonathan, he’s ready to face anyone if it means getting closer to the championship. Respecting Bautista as he would the bantamweight champ Merab Dvalishvili, Aldo feels he’s on another level.
“This is another test,” Aldo remarked. “They tested me last time to see if I still wanted this or not.” He believes these bouts are stepping stones toward his ultimate goal—the belt.
Reflecting on his previous fight against Dvalishvili in August 2022, Aldo laments how it unfolded. Despite stopping every takedown attempt, he lost by decision and retired that night. Yet, less than two years later, he returned to defeat Martinez.
Back in Utah for UFC 307, Aldo recalls his disappointment from that fight. “My performance wasn’t good,” he admitted. He felt the referee allowed too much time against the fence, making the bout dull and leaving him unable to showcase his skills.
“The fire was out,” Aldo reflected on that night’s emotions. But now? The fire is rekindled. Gym mates are in awe of his dedication and skill—“Damn, this guy is a phenom,” they say. With renewed passion, Aldo aims to deliver an electrifying performance.
Asked about a potential clash with Dominick Cruz, Aldo revealed it was discussed before UFC 301. However, he believes their careers are on different paths now. “I’m on another path,” he stated firmly.
His focus is singular: a title fight. Driven by dreams of becoming champion again, Aldo dedicates himself fully to training and preparation. He’s well-prepared and determined to achieve his goal.