The โKing of Rioโ Jose Aldo made his second appearance of the year in UFC 307. He fought the #11 ranked UFC bantamweight, Mario Bautista. Interestingly, the outcome of the fight seemed to stir the community. As a result, several individuals in the fighting community, including Conor McGregor and Joe Rogan, appeared to disagree with the judgesโ scorecard.
Jose Aldo was coming off a win since his last outing in May against Jonathan Martinez. Everyone in the community expected a win for the Brazilian fighter. However, that didnโt happen, as he lost via controversial split decision in a grueling 15-minute brawl. Conor McGregor, in particular, seemingly went out to berate the judges. In doing so, McGregor also cited Joe Roganโs comment on the decision.
Over the years, there have been several controversies surrounding judgesโ scorecards. Most recently, at UFC 305, one of the judges was even removed for scoring poorly. Most MMA fans believe the same issue occurred in the Aldo vs. Bautista fight. Well, in the case of the Brazilian fighter, it cost him one of his most important fights.
Rogan said the judges werenโt even looking. That was Joseโs story. Bullshit decision. He has just said he was shooting in just to hold him against the fence. Thatโs not good enough. Referees need to step in here. This sport is the fans sport. Remember this and act accordinglyโฆ
โ Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) October 6, 2024
Dirt decision.
โ Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) October 6, 2024
The crowd was NOT happy about that decision ๐ฌ#UFC307 #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/cUFOahBPg8
โ Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 6, 2024
As for Aldoโs opponent, Mario Bautista could potentially move up the ranks with a win over the veteran Brazilian. By defeating Aldo, Bautista has now won seven matches in a row. Aldoโs loss has sparked speculation about his next opponent. Meanwhile, McGregor has hinted at a potential matchup for Aldo in his recent tweet.
Who should Jose Aldo fight next?
Over his illustrious UFC career, former champion Jose Aldo has defeated several formidable opponents. However, his trajectory at the promotion has been quite concerning lately. Amidst that, his former rival, Conor McGregor, names a potential opponent for the Brazilian to fight next.
While making that statement, McGregor also praised Aldoโs remarkable achievements in the UFC. The Irishman even went as far as to label him as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. Interestingly, when mentioning potential upcoming opponents for Aldo, McGregor named one of Aldoโs former opponents, whom the Brazilian fighter had failed to defeat.
One of our true all time greats! I made my name off Jose. Aldo vs Merab for two weight champion status would be something to behold! Motivation! I hope it stays. Must implement discipline!
โ Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) October 6, 2024
The Notorious seemingly wanted the Brazilian legend not to break his spirit following his defeat against Bautista. The legendary fighter can still compete with top opposition after witnessing him at UFC 307. That being said, now it remains to be seen when the 38-year-old fighter comes back to compete again.