Following his decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315, mixed martial arts icon Jose Aldo declared his retirement from the sport. In his immediate post-fight interview, he cited a lack of passion, stating he simply “doesn`t have it in his heart anymore.” Speaking moments later to UFC Brazil, the former champion disclosed the extent of significant injuries he was dealing with leading up to the event.
Describing the fight as “hard,” Aldo detailed some of his physical issues: “I had a muscle tear in my arm, I had something in my lower abdomen, which I can`t recall the name of, likely from excessive kicking. I had several problems, including a viral infection, among other things. The doctors actually advised me to pull out of the fight, but I chose not to because, in my mind, I knew this might be my final fight.”
This bout followed a difficult defeat to Mario Bautista in October. Aldo competed for the full three rounds against Zahabi, ultimately losing a decision that sparked some controversy. The matchup was initially scheduled for bantamweight (135 pounds) but was later moved to featherweight after Aldo encountered difficulties making the lighter weight limit.
The distinguished career of the former UFC and WEC featherweight titleholder concludes with an overall MMA record of 32 wins and 10 losses, including an undefeated 8-0 run in the WEC and a 14-9 record within the UFC octagon.
“I specifically wanted to conclude my career here in Canada,” Aldo commented. “This is where my journey in the UFC began, against Mark Hominick, so it felt fitting to end it here as well, rather than in Brazil or elsewhere. It`s just how things unfolded, and it`s part of life.”
The celebrated Brazilian stated that his approach wouldn`t have differed even if the UFC had booked him against other notable veterans, such as Dominick Cruz. He also revealed that he had been contemplating retirement even before the UFC 315 event took place.
“I was already thinking about this; I had been discussing with my coach `Dede` Pederneiras and my wife Viviane Pereira about moving on to the next phase,” Aldo explained. “It`s more about the mental state required to compete at this level. While I wouldn`t say I was entirely done, I recognized it was time to transition. I`ve always demanded a lot from myself, but now I primarily want to enjoy time with my family, be present as a father, and do simple things like picking up my children from school. That`s what I desire now.”
Additionally, Aldo shared a heartfelt statement on social media on Sunday, reinforcing that this fight was likely his last and extending his gratitude to everyone who was part of his extensive career in the sport.
This could well be my final appearance inside the Octagon.
This past week presented one of my toughest fights, not against an external opponent, but within myself.
Over the last few years, I rekindled the dream of becoming a champion again, training with the same dedication and giving more effort than ever before. Yet, during the weight cutting process, an inner voice distinctly told me: “You don`t need to continue doing this anymore.” And I listened to that voice.
It is now time for me to move forward. To dedicate my life to my wife, to my children. To celebrate the incredible story I authored with every single war waged, every belt earned through sweat, blood, and unwavering faith.
I wish to express my sincere thanks to Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta. Thank you to the entire UFC organization. And most importantly – thank you, my dedicated fans. You were the constant fuel behind every single walk to the cage. You genuinely made me feel like a king.
If this truly marks my farewell from competition, please know that I depart in profound peace. My heart is full of gratitude, and my head is held high. This is because I made history. Because I fully lived my dream. And because, above all else, I remained true to myself throughout.
This recent announcement marks the second time Aldo has stepped away from the UFC. He initially retired from mixed martial arts following his August 2022 loss to future champion Merab Dvalishvili. Following that, he ventured into professional boxing, where he compiled a 2-0-1 record in the ring before ultimately returning to the octagon in 2024. Since his comeback, the 38-year-old veteran has secured one victory in his three bouts.
