Jose Aldo`s recent bout against Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315 delivered a fight outcome that is sure to be debated for a long time, and not just for the reasons expected of a legendary fighter`s potential farewell.
The former featherweight champion suffered a contentious split decision defeat to Zahabi on the main card Saturday night. Zahabi was awarded the victory with all three judges scoring the fight 29-28 in his favor after a hard-fought three rounds. Both competitors had significant moments throughout the contest; Aldo notably rocked Zahabi with a head kick early in the third round, while Zahabi nearly secured a ground-and-pound finish later on.
Despite reaching the judges` scorecards, Aldo did not get his hand raised, marking his third loss on points in his last four fights.
The decision immediately ignited outrage across social media platforms, with many fans and fighters expressing strong disagreement. Fellow fighter Renato Moicano was particularly vocal, describing the scoring as a “f*cking robbery.” However, the focus quickly shifted to the 38-year-old Aldo`s actions in the cage after the result was announced – specifically, him removing his gloves.
Aldo subsequently used his post-fight interview time to deliver a statement that sounded like a definitive farewell to the sport, declaring, “I think this is the last time you’re going to see me.” The combination of the controversial decision and Aldo`s apparent retirement announcement has become a major talking point within the MMA community.
Marcus Blakely