Former UFC featherweight champion José Aldo continues to make waves in the combat sports world, this time inside the boxing ring. After retiring from MMA last year, Aldo has embarked on a boxing journey, and his latest outing resulted in a dominant win.
Aldo’s boxing career began with a successful debut against Emmanuel Zambrano in February, followed by a controversial draw against Jeremy Stephens. However, the Brazilian legend bounced back in impressive fashion in his third professional boxing match.
Headlining a Shooto Boxing event in Rio de Janeiro, Aldo faced off against Esteban Gabriel, an Argentine native looking for his first victory in the sport. Aldo showcased his striking skills and demonstrated that he hasn’t lost a step, dominating the contest from start to finish.
The judges unanimously scored the bout in favor of Aldo, with all three of them awarding him a perfect 60-54 scorecard after six rounds of intense action. The victory solidifies Aldo’s boxing record and further highlights his versatility and skill as a combat sports athlete.
All Jose Aldo tonight pic.twitter.com/WXo8xB5uOD
— The Octagon Obsessed (@octagonobsessed) July 3, 2023
Aldo is going to join the UFC Hall of Fame this year.
Jose Aldo has been announced as the first inductee into the prestigious 2023 UFC Hall of Fame. Aldo’s contributions to the sport of MMA and his accomplishments inside the Octagon have solidified his status as the greatest featherweight of all time.
UFC President Dana White expressed his admiration for Aldo, stating, “Jose Aldo is the epitome of a true champion. Throughout his career, he played an integral role in building the sport of MMA and elevating the UFC brand. He also shattered misconceptions about the smaller weight classes, showcasing their immense talent and skill. It is a tremendous honor for us to welcome him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”
Aldo’s journey to greatness began with his impressive performances in jiu-jitsu tournaments, where he showcased his grappling prowess. In 2004, he transitioned to professional MMA and quickly made a name for himself in the WEC promotion. In 2009, Aldo defeated Mike Brown to capture the WEC featherweight title, marking the beginning of his reign as a dominant force in the division.
When the UFC absorbed the WEC featherweight division, Aldo seamlessly transitioned into the UFC and became its inaugural featherweight champion after defeating Manny Gamburyan. He embarked on a remarkable run, successfully defending the title seven times, a feat that stands as a UFC record.
Although Aldo faced a setback when he lost to Conor McGregor, he refused to let that define his legacy. Determined to prove his resilience and versatility, the Brazilian ventured into the bantamweight division, challenging top contenders and vying for gold once again.
In August 2022, Aldo encountered a formidable opponent in Merab Dvalishvili, resulting in a loss that halted his three win streak and prevented him from securing another title shot. Undeterred by the setback, Aldo redirected his focus towards the world of boxing, showcasing his adaptability and passion for combat sports.
Jose Aldo’s contributions to the sport extend beyond his remarkable achievements. His impact on the perception of the lighter weight classes and his unwavering determination have left an indelible mark on the MMA landscape. Aldo’s induction into the UFC Hall of Fame is a testament to his unparalleled talent, dedication, and lasting legacy.