One of the most revered names in mixed martial arts history, José Aldo, brought the curtain down on his illustrious 18-year career on Saturday night, following a hard-fought loss to Canada’s Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315.
The 38-year-old Brazilian, widely regarded as the greatest featherweight of all time, removed his gloves inside the Octagon at Montreal’s Bell Centre, signalling his retirement after a unanimous decision defeat (29-28 on all three scorecards). It marked the final chapter in a storied journey that included a decade of dominance and nine consecutive title defences spanning the WEC and UFC.
“I don’t think I have it in me anymore,” Aldo said emotionally via translator to commentator Daniel Cormier. “I don’t want to go into war all the time… I just don’t have it in my heart anymore.”
Aldo had initially retired in 2022 but returned to competition in 2024 in a bid to recapture past glory. His comeback was met with mixed success, including a controversial split-decision loss to Mario Bautista that left fans questioning the judging. His UFC 315 return was no different in terms of controversy.
Despite missing weight and appearing slightly diminished physically, Aldo opened the contest with flashes of his trademark speed and precision. In the third round, he nearly sealed a storybook ending, rocking Zahabi with a brutal head kick followed by a furious flurry. However, as fatigue crept in, Zahabi turned the tide, scoring a takedown and unleashing a punishing barrage of ground strikes that left Aldo bloodied and reeling.
Though Zahabi earned the decision, some fans and pundits voiced disagreement with the result, suggesting Aldo had done enough to secure a farewell victory.
Regardless of the outcome, Aldo’s legacy remains firmly intact. A former WEC and UFC featherweight champion, his seven consecutive UFC title defences remain a record in the division. Known for his lethal leg kicks, surgical striking, and steely composure, Aldo was the embodiment of dominance during his peak years.
His retirement closes the book on an era, but his place among MMA’s all-time greats is beyond dispute.
“I think this is the last time you’ll see me,” Aldo said, leaving the Octagon with his head held high to a standing ovation.