In a highly contested bout at UFC 315, Brazilian legend Jose Aldo faced Aiemann Zahabi and ultimately found himself on the losing end of a very close and controversial decision. Following the fight, Aldo made the significant announcement that this event would mark the final appearance of his storied career in mixed martial arts.
Despite putting forth a strong effort that included coming close to a finish in the third round, Aldo appeared to show signs of fatigue later in the fight. Zahabi capitalized, landing significant strikes until the final horn. While many observers felt Aldo had done enough to secure the win, the official judges saw it differently, all three scoring the fight 29-28 in favor of Zahabi, leading to widespread debate about the result.
Immediately after the decision was read, a visibly emotional Aldo removed his gloves inside the octagon, signaling his retirement to the crowd in Montreal.
Addressing the audience and expressing gratitude, Aldo explained his decision. “Thank you to Dana [White], to Sean [Shelby], to Lorenzo Fertitta, for everybody in the UFC for everything they’ve given me,” he began. Reflecting on the challenges leading up to the fight, he added, “I don’t think I have it in me anymore. This was a tough week… I just felt there were so many things that happened. It was very tough to go through all this.”
Aldo further elaborated on feeling a lack of desire to continue facing the rigors of the sport. “There was one point this week… that I felt I didn’t have it in me. I didn’t want to cut anymore. My body said no and I just don’t think I have it anymore. I don’t want to go into war all the time and go through this. I just don’t have it in my heart anymore. I think this is the last time you’re going to see me. I can’t do this anymore,” he stated, confirming his decision to step away.
Should this retirement hold, Jose Aldo leaves the sport as one of the most celebrated and dominant champions in UFC history. He concludes his professional fighting career with an impressive record of 32 wins and 10 losses and has already rightfully secured his place in the UFC Hall of Fame.
For Aiemann Zahabi, defeating Aldo represents the most significant victory of his career to date. This win is now set to stand as the final professional bout on the legendary resume of Jose Aldo.
Commenting on his triumph, Zahabi expressed satisfaction. “It feels amazing,” he said. “I did all the work.” He acknowledged being rocked during the fight but stated his mindset coaching helped him prepare for such moments. Looking to the future, Zahabi made it clear who he wants next, calling out Marlon “Chito” Vera. “I would like to fight against Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera. Get me moving forward in the rankings,” he stated.
The fight itself saw Aldo initiate pressure, moving forward and effectively landing hard right hands and body shots, appearing quicker than Zahabi in the early exchanges. Towards the end of the first round, Zahabi managed to land some strikes, but Aldo responded immediately with sharp combinations.
As the fight progressed, Aldo`s output appeared to slow, yet he continued to land a crisp jab. Zahabi found his rhythm as well, connecting with his own powerful right hand.
In the third and final round, after Zahabi landed some early shots, Aldo delivered a stunning, precise knee strike straight up the middle that severely rocked Zahabi. Following up aggressively, Aldo launched a barrage of punches and head kicks, coming incredibly close to finishing the fight.
Remarkably, Zahabi survived this onslaught and even managed to fire back with heavy punches as Aldo showed signs of exhaustion. The fight concluded with Zahabi in a dominant position, landing ground and pound, resulting in cuts and blood on Aldo`s face. Both fighters raised their hands upon the final bell, but the judges ultimately awarded the victory to Zahabi.
With this win over a true icon, Aiemann Zahabi has now extended his impressive winning streak to six consecutive fights.
