- George Chung
- Oct 4, 2024
- 2 min read
When an emotional Jose Aldo broke down backstage at the 2023 UFC Hall of Fame ceremony, wiping tears from his eyes before walking onto the stage to his signature walkout track, “Run This Town,” it felt like a final goodbye. The inaugural UFC Featherweight Champion and Bantamweight contender Jose Aldo seemed ready to close the chapter on his legendary fighting career and move on, until now at UFC 307.
So, it was a complete shock when "The King of Rio" announced his return to the Octagon, stepping back into action earlier this year at UFC 301 after a 19-month hiatus. Facing Jonathan Martinez in front of his hometown crowd, Aldo defied expectations and delivered a dominant performance, proving he still had plenty left in the tank. Crown on his head, the iconic Brazilian walked to the cage with confidence, wiping the floor with Martinez in a vintage showing that brought back memories of his prime.
“I think we did really good at UFC Rio,” Aldo told UFC correspondent Evelyn Rodrigues as he geared up for yet another clash. “Everyone thought it was going to be a farewell fight, but we put on a great and agile performance. Everyone got scared that I was leaving again, but I’m coming back, man!”
Now, Jose Aldo returns to the Octagon once more at UFC 307, facing Mario Bautista in what is set to be an explosive matchup on Saturday night at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. For Aldo, this isn’t just about competing for the sake of competition—he’s back with a purpose. He wants the UFC Bantamweight title, and he’s willing to fight his way through any obstacle to get there.
“I came back to be a champion,” Aldo boldly stated, reigniting the passion that had seemingly faded after his retirement. “The flame is burning bright again.”
While his win over Martinez was impressive, Aldo knows he has a long road ahead. Bautista, a rising star on an extended winning streak, presents a fresh challenge. But Aldo remains unfazed, studying his opponent with the same meticulous approach that has made him one of the most successful fighters in UFC history. “It’s the same for every opponent,” Aldo explained. “I study every detail, no matter who it is. Whether it’s Mario or a No. 1 contender, we train hard to deliver a great fight.”
Should Aldo dispatch Bautista on Saturday, the veteran fighter has his sights set on one thing: UFC gold. His ultimate goal is to challenge Merab Dvalishvili, the man who last defeated him, for the Bantamweight title. “There is no other way,” Aldo said with determination. “For the next fight, we’re aiming for the No. 1 spot, the title.”
The King of Rio is back, and he’s looking to run this town once more—don’t be surprised if he ascends to the throne again.
Will Jose Aldo’s incredible comeback continue? Watch UFC 307 to find out if the Brazilian legend can claim his rightful place at the top of the division!
