‘KING’ JOSE IN LINE FOR RIGHT ROYAL PAYDAY
JOSE ALDO has revealed how he put his crown on the line in his comeback fight and can now expect a king’s ransom to return again.
The Brazilian, 37, having stepped away from the octagon in August 2022, made a triumphant comeback at UFC 301 as he dominated No.12ranked bantamweight Jonathan Martinez, all three judges returning 30-27 scorecards.
‘The King of Rio’ (below) showed he was still a class act and can now expect a bumper new UFC contract, having turned down an extension and opting to see out the final fight of his current deal.
Would-be suitors will be lining the length of Copacabana beach to sign the free agent but Aldo said: “Right at the beginning, when I asked for this fight, they (the UFC) talked about it (a new contract).
“I said, ‘No, calm down, let’s fight first. Let me fight. You have to see. Let’s go slowly. Let’s get there, let’s fight and put on a performance.’
“I wanted to fight here first and now, yes, I can sit with (UFC president) Dana White and see what is the best path we can take.
“I have always done everything in my life thinking about being the champion, so no auction (for my next fight).
“First of all, I have to sit down with the UFC because in my contract they can match any offer that pops up. I will sit with Dana and see what is the best path to take.”
Making a successful return after retirement has proved a very difficult task for many athletes in the combat sports world.
However, the former featherweight champion has had four boxing bouts since he last entered a cage, sharpening his hands alongside sparring at the Brazilian Navy’s gym.
Having left Martinez all at sea, Aldo added: “I had to train for this and it wasn’t easy.
“He is a great fighter and I had to be able to annul his kicks – leg kicks, body kicks – but I am happy.
“I had been working a lot on my boxing at the Navy facilities and I want to thank them for teaching me.” Sporting a crown as he made his walkout, Aldo, who started his MMA career 20 years ago, ensured the Farmasi Arena was in a frenzy for his return, saying: “It felt amazing. I am really thankful and flattered by the love and reception everyone gave me.”