Jose Aldo is set to make his long-awaited return to the UFC Octagon at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The former featherweight champion will take on Jonathan Martinez in what will be his first fight since August 2022.
Aldo’s last fight resulted in a decision loss to the No. 1 ranked bantamweight Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 278. Despite the setback, the Brazilian legend was honored in July 2023 as he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame alongside Anderson Silva.
The King of Rio’s illustrious career was highlighted by an impressive 18-fight win streak from 2006 to 2015, with his only defeat during that period coming at the hands of Conor McGregor. Aldo later reclaimed the featherweight crown by defeating Frankie Edgar at UFC 200.
With a record of 31-8, including 17 knockouts and a submission, Aldo will face off against Martinez, who is currently ranked 14th in the bantamweight division. Martinez, boasting a record of 19-4 with nine knockouts, is on a six-fight win streak coming into this matchup.
In addition to Aldo’s return, the UFC also announced that Brazilian flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his title against Steve Erceg at UFC 301. Pantoja, with a record of 27-5 and five consecutive wins, will look to continue his reign as champion.
The event in Rio de Janeiro promises to be an exciting one for fight fans, with two highly anticipated matchups on the card. As Aldo prepares to step back into the Octagon, all eyes will be on the former champion as he aims to make a triumphant return in front of his hometown crowd.
